NORTH Berwick youngster Charlie Kay has completed his latest challenge: cycling 100 miles throughout May alongside his family for a local charity.

The 12-year-old has cerebral palsy and cannot walk independently, so uses either a frame or a trike to get around.

By the end of the challenge he had cycled a distance of 105 miles.

It was completed alongside younger sister Meredith, aged eight, a primary three pupil at Law Primary School, and mum Melanie, who works as a support assistant at the school.

Charlie’s dad Martin also occasionally joined them on the rides.

Melanie said: “There’s been so many people doing their own wee bit for charity.

“The challenge (which was Charlie’s idea) served two purposes: it contributed to a lot of people who are having tough times at the moment and it gave us a bit more of a focus on the fitness side of things.

“Charlie responds well to a challenge, he loves them.”

Melanie would always join Charlie and Meredith on their daily rides, which were mostly completed in the morning around their local area, either running alongside or cycling on longer distances.

Melanie said: “We stuck together and did it as a family. Meredith has been amazing and really helped Charlie.”

Charlie completed the cycle on a rather heavy adapted tricycle which took him a little bit longer to cycle uphill, something that frustrated him.

Melanie said: “He got a bit frustrated but he stuck at it.

“He was not pushed and did it all on his own.

“He totally amazes me and I’m so proud of them both. It’s a great achievement and not an easy task for a child who can’t walk independently.

“He is a determined little boy who has never let his disability limit him and what he can achieve.”

On their last day (May 31), neighbours in Stair Park clapped when they returned home, something Melanie says was “lovely” and “helped finish it off”.

Charlie recently started second year at North Berwick High School, with several teachers donating to the cause.

It particularly appealed to guidance teacher Craig Stebbing, who joined in with Charlie’s challenge and regularly contacted him to chat about their progress.

Craig, principle guidance teacher at North Berwick High School, said: “I’m Charlie’s guidance teacher and have loved getting to know him this year.

“I heard through a colleague in early May that Charlie was doing this challenge.

“Having not been on my bike in a few years, I thought it was about time I got it dusted off and matched Charlie’s efforts.

“I emailed Charlie to say how impressed I was to hear of his challenge and he replied to me in such an encouraging way, I was truly humbled.

“We stayed in contact and he continued to send me words of encouragement, as the month went on, to hit the 100 miles.

“In this time of lockdown, he has certainly got myself and my daughter more active and I am continuing my cycling too.

“Well done and thank you Charlie and Meredith!”

So far, the pair have raised more than £2,000 for the Walk With Scott Foundation, a charity Melanie volunteers for.

She is also secretary for Beach Wheelchairs, a local cause that benefited from funding from the Walk With Scott Foundation.

Speaking about the foundation, Melanie said: “They do so many good things for so many different types of projects.

“The money they donate goes to projects all over East Lothian and is going where it’s needed.”

Those wishing to donate can do so at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MelanieKay3

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/pg/CharliesChallenge