Seven-year-old Derbyshire runner donates to toy appeal

A seven-year-old Derbyshire school boy has generously donated £500 worth of toys to The Salvation Army church in Derby Central at Christmas.

Shortly after watching the London Marathon in October, Finley asked his parents if he could do something for charity and decided to raise money for other children to make them happy on Christmas morning. 

His challenge was to train and run 5km. He asked his family and friends to sponsor him. Finley trained each week and completed his 5km race on the 6th November in just 36 minutes alongside his dad. Having originally set a target of £50, Finley actually managed to raise £500.

With the money raised, Finley went with his family and picked new toys and then donated them to The Salvation Army Christmas Present Appeal. Finley’s parents said that Finley had thought carefully about which toys he wanted to buy with the money and managed to fill the boot of their van with the toys. 

The family of four (Finley, his parents and brother) visited Derby Central Salvation Army church on Sunday 12th December to deliver the toys personally. Leader of the church, Major Jill Colclough said: “It was an absolute pleasure to receive the toys from Finley after his fantastic efforts and generosity. There are going to be some very happy children in and around Derby this year thanks to Finley and his very kind gesture.” 

People at the Sunday morning service were so touched by the kindness and thoughtfulness of the child, he moved people to tears. Leaders of the church thanked Finley and said they were inspired by him.

Thank you to Finley and his family who have been stars in Derbyshire this Christmas-time. The Salvation Army wishes to thank all those who’ve donated gifts to children who wouldn’t otherwise receive a gift on Christmas day.