Five-year-old cutie raises hundreds for charity by cycling 10 miles - just weeks after she learned to ride a bike

Little Ariya Thakrar only learned to ride a bike for the first time in April.

But last weekend the determined Great Linford youngster pedalled an amazing 10 miles during the Cycle Europe Virtual Challenge.

Her efforts raised more than £600 in sponsorship and she is giving the money to Willen Hospice.

"Ariya was particularly touched by the story of Willen Hospice and the work they do," said her dad Bhavish. "As a family we raised £1,100 plus. We really wanted to help."

He added: "We have a massive passion to help anybody through this hard time. Ariya has a good education on the amazing hospice and we now have a lifelong supporter."

Like most charities, Willen Hospice is suffering financially during the coronavirus crisis. Its services are free to those they care for, but to continue to offer that care they need to raise around £4.7m every year. This equates to around £9 every minute.

"Without the support, dedication and generosity of people, we couldn't provide the care we do," said a spokesman.

If you would like to help the hospice, there are fundraising ideas here .