Bedford footballer Kyden, 11, scores funds for Sue Ryder hospice

A young football fan has dribbled a ball for five kilometres near where he lives to raise funds for a Bedfordshire hospice.

Kyden Dixon-Langley, aged 11 from Bedford, set himself the tricky feat of carefully controlling a ball for just over three miles, which he completed in only 47 minutes.

He was accompanied by his mum Charlene, who helped to choose a safe route and cycled alongside him, cheering him on.

Kyden’s charity challenge raised £332 for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, which cared for his grandad Douglas Langley and also helped his friends.

The hospice, located in Moggerhanger, provides expert care for people with life-limiting conditions, as well as supporting their families.

Football-loving Kyden has been playing the game every day in his garden during lockdown, and supports the same club as his grandad – Tottenham Hotspur.

He said: “This charity in Bedford helped my grandad and my friends Cassie and Kye at a sad time.

“I remember going there to see them and the staff were very friendly. I want to help them by raising money because it is hard for them right now. I want to thank them for everything they do for everyone who is ill. Thank you for helping me.”

Helen Kingston, community fundraising Ofoicer at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, said: “Thank you so much Kyden for your incredible support; we are really impressed with your fantastic football skills.

"The £332 you have raised will help to make sure we can continue to offer our palliative care and be there when it matters for patients and their families. For example, it could pay for around 15 hours of our expert care, helping people live the best life they possibly can.

“We are searching for other big-hearted people in the local community to follow in Kyden’s footsteps and take on an active challenge this summer as part of our Virtual Summer Series. Please contact our fundraising team for more details on 01767 642412 or here”

You can also support Kyden here