A CHARITABLE Stourbridge paperboy was able to raise more than £600 during a recent cycling challenge.

Kinver High School pupil James Gaskin rode more than 100 miles from his home town to Aberdovey on the Welsh coast in six hours and 12 minutes.

The 13-year-old, who delivers the Stourbridge News to homes around Norton Road, will now donate the money he raised to Acorns Children’s Hospice.

James, who had only ever cycled 65 miles before the challenge, said: “I want to thank everyone for all the support I have received. I have raised over £600 and still donations are being made.

“We left home at 5.45 am. The weather was perfect and we made good progress and reached Harry Tuffins for breakfast at 8.45 am and 50 miles completed.

“I found the first 50 miles the hardest part but we soon clocked up 75 miles and a quick stop for energy gels and mum’s flapjack and we were off again, reaching Aberdovey at 1.30pm.

“When we were having a well-deserved drink in the Britannia Inn in Aberdovey we were given another £10 by a complete stranger, who was amazed where we had come from.”

James, who rode alongside his dad Chris, had set himself a fundraising target of £500 for the hospice which he was able to beat.

There is still time to support James and donate to Acorns Children’s Hospice by visiting www.justgiving.com/fundraising/James-Gaskin1