Oscar’s Christmas walking challenge

Oscar Bramer, 10, wanted to do something charitable at Christmas for his local children’s hospice and chose to undertake a walking challenge of local routes based on his early experiences of being out and about during lockdown.

Working towards his Hugh Oldham award, the kind-hearted year 6 student, walked from his home in Altrincham, around the Bollin Valley Path, through Altrincham to Dunham Massey estate, and sometimes venturing along the Bridgewater canal.

A walk in the Peak District including Shutlingsloe was a real challenge with a steep descent.

When asked about his challenge Oscar said: “The reason why I did this challenge for Francis House is because I wanted to help people in need and thought by doing the 100km walk would be a great way to raise money for my charity, and at the same time, improve my fitness. Whilst doing this I enjoyed the nature and exploring new routes.

“This activity was tiring but also really fun. Every morning I couldn‘t wait to go out on the walks. I had a lovely time walking with my dad every day.”

Oscar’s mum Simona said: We were particularly proud of Oscar taking the initiative to fit in the routes around our other commitments. This meant putting up with some very early starts on some days and a sleep-deprived dad on other days who had been working during the night.

“Oscar showed real understanding of the amazing work at Francis House and what that means to those who benefit and this was great for his motivation.

“Talking to people in Morrisons Cheadle Hulme, while collecting was a fabulous experience. So many people showed remarkable generosity and often knew a lot about Francis House.”

Services at Francis House include respite care, homecare, day care, sibling support, parental support, end of life care, emotional and bereavement support.  There is no upper-age limit and once accepted Francis House continue to care for young adults into their twenties (even thirties).

Rachel Nasiri, fundraising officer at Francis House said: “We’d like to thank Oscar for once again putting the needs of others first and choosing to support the children and families of Francis House.

“Congratulations to Oscar for undertaking such an adventurous challenge, it takes real dedication to commit to walking every day and he has raised a fantastic amount of money.

“The support of Oscar and his family will enable us to continue our work in providing fun experiences and happy memories for the whole family and give the children and young people more opportunities to enjoy their lives to the full.”

Oscar raised more than £1,000 through sponsorship, family donations and a bucket collection at Morrisons.

Inspired by Oscar? Why not take part in your own walking challenge and sign up to our New Year Winter Wander!