A primary school pupil from Donaghadee has raised £1,375 for the RNLI after running a mile each day throughout May. Xander Morrow, aged six, decided to take on the challenge after his mother earned a medal for completing a half marathon in April.

His mother, Jill Hamilton, said the family chose the RNLI because they live near the Donaghadee lifeboat station. She noted that he ran in all types of weather and never complained or resisted the daily commitment.

Xander ran with one of his parents each day and was often seen around the town by locals who encouraged him. On one occasion his entire class at Donaghadee Primary School joined him to complete a mile together.

He presented a cheque to the local crew at the end of the challenge and received his own medal. Xander said he wanted to help the volunteers who give their time to save lives at sea, and he expressed an interest in the lifeboat’s equipment.