Sisters, nine and seven, cycle 250 miles to raise money for Coin Street Nursery in Waterloo

We’ve heard of a vicious cycle, where people get things wrong and seem to just make it worse with every move – not mentioning any names.

Well this is a virtuous cycle.

During lockdown, sisters Tilly, aged nine, and Dotty, seven, have been cycling 250 miles between them to raise money to help buy resources for the children at Coin Street Nursery, in Waterloo.

The sisters, themselves from Waterloo, both went to the nursery and their brother Monty currently attends.

They have already cycled 70 miles and have raised £460 via their GoFundMe page.

Coin Street Nursery is part of Coin Street, a social enterprise offering affordable care and education.

The Early Years Alliance (EYA) recently reported that a quarter of child minders and nurseries will not be able to stay open beyond Christmas without extra funding.

Coin Street Nursery has never operated for a profit, and the sisters’ fundraising efforts will ensure the children have everything they need this year.

Tilly and Dotty said: “We wanted to do this challenge so that our little brother and his friends can enjoy their time at nursery. We’ve loved exploring new
parts of London by bike.”

Jane Christofi, head of Early Years education at Coin Street Nursery, said: “Everyone at Coin Street is so proud of Tilly and Dotty and we’re incredibly grateful for their support.

“We can’t wait to hear updates from the girls and are so impressed that they’ve already cycled so far.

“What an achievement. It’s lovely to see them promoting a sense of community, something that is important to all of us here at Coin Street.”

To donate, click here.

Pictured top: Tilly, left, and Dotty