Watch boy with cerebral palsy take on Captain Tom-style walking challenge and raise over 3k for charity – YorkshireLive

An eight-year-old boy with cerebral palsy is embarking on his own Captain Tom-style walking challenge - and he has already raised over 3,000 for charity.

Zach Eagling, from Liversedge, aims to complete 2.6km in laps around his garden before his ninth birthday on June 16.

His condition, which he was diagnosed with at the age of three, means he has difficulties in his movement and cognitive development, so he has set himself a mammoth task.

He wants to raise money and awareness for Epilepsy Society, as he lives with the condition and the charity is in serious need of support due to the coronavirus crisis cutting fundraising opportunities.

His mum Claire Keer, 38, explained that Zach was inspired to take on his charity walk by the heroic exploits of 100-year-old Keighley war veteran, Captain Tom Moore, who ended up raising over 30million for the NHS.

Claire recalled: Zach became obsessed with hearing about Captain Tom and said he wanted to walk for charity."

Claire heard about the 2.6 Challenge - a nationwide fundraiser set up in place of this years' London Marathon.

We came across the 2.6 Challenge and thought around 260 was a reasonable target considering the amount of people struggling financially just now," recalled Claire.

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"But within a few hours he had surpassed it and reached almost 500. Now the total is sitting at more than 3,000 which is absolutely incredible.

We are all so proud of what he has achieved and are continuing to support him throughout the remainder of his challenge. Hes only recently started walking independently from his walking frame, so it is a huge challenge for him physically.

We are so grateful to everyone who has supported Zach and donated money.

Since his diagnosis, specialist lawyers at Irwin Mitchell have helped him and his family access specialist therapies and support he requires.

Legal expert Rachelle Mahapatra said: It is incredible to hear about Zachs determination and generosity by taking part in a charity fund-raiser which is clearly a challenge for him.

The charity sector is undoubtedly struggling at this time and it is great to see Zach helping to make a difference.

He is also a brilliant example of why you shouldnt let disability stop you from doing what you want to achieve.

Anyone who wants to donate to Zach's cause can do so by visiting his Just Giving page.

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Watch boy with cerebral palsy take on Captain Tom-style walking challenge and raise over 3k for charity - YorkshireLive