Seven-year-old wins ITV prize for his book series that raised cash for hospice
A boy of seven has scooped a national award from ITV in recognition of his work to raise money for a hospice by writing and publishing his own series of books.
Lucas Daly from Bexley is the proud winner of the TV station’s Volunteering Award One Million Minutes and appeared on Good Morning Britain to talk about his achievement.
A year ago, at the age of six, he started creating the Bone Man series of books, which he then sold to raise money for the Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice, who cared for his grandfather in 2021.
In front of the breakfast TV audience, a very proud Lucas said: “I feel like I am a champ. I feel like my help is spreading around the world. A big thank you to everyone that has supported me and bought a book.”
Mum Rhea added: “I am immensely proud of Lucas and astonished how far this has gone.
“To think that this time last year Lucas sat down at the kitchen table and just started writing and illustrating his own book was mind-blowing.
“We got the first book printed and decided to sell the book to family and friends, donating the funds raised to the wonderful Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice.
“I feel completely blessed to have Lucas and can’t be more grateful to the hospice for the amazing work they do and the care they gave to my father especially, through the final five days of his life; as well as all the other people that come through their door. They truly are remarkable.”
Kate Heaps, chief executive at the hospice, said: “What Lucas has achieved is incredible. At a time when he had lost his grandad, Lucas thought of others and spent time writing his lovely book.
“Not only has he raised vital funds for our hospice, he’s also raised awareness of hospice care and brightened up the days of many patients and visitors who visit our hospice.”
So far, Lucas has raised almost £1,000 for the hospice from sales of his books. The Bone Man series of books is available to buy from Amazon.
Last year, the hospice cared for almost 3,000 people and they need to raise £6m every year through donations, fundraising and retail sales, to help to fund their care and support services.
Pictured top: Lucas shows off his award (Picture: ITV)
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