A YOUNGSTER has quite literally run the extra mile to show support for his local firefighters.

Rory Mangan, 11 from Botley, ran a total of 73km last month to raise money for The Fire Fighters Charity, which supports firefighters in need of physical or mental rehabilitation.

Rory was inspired by a charity day at his school, and aimed to run 50km – but smashed both that target and his fundraising goal of £100, instead raising £760 at the time of publication.

The youngster crossed the finish line at Botley Fire Station to complete his challenge with a hero’s welcome from firefighters.

Rory said: ‘Thank you so much for your support, donations and organising the finish for me, I loved it with everyone there.’

Stu Mangan, Rory’s father, is a watch manager at Botley Fire Station.

He said: ‘No one asked him to do this, yet he set himself this goal, and the commitment and desire Rory’s demonstrated to not only complete the challenge but exceed his initial target, is inspirational.

‘He loved every minute, and seeing the smile on his face when I told him someone had sponsored him, was fantastic.

‘I am incredibly proud of Rory and all he has achieved.’

Later this month, the crew at Botley Fire Station will also be taking on a fundraiser of their own.

On September 18, they will be doing a charity skydive, having initially postponed the event due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Stu added: ‘The charity has played an important role for a lot of our team and our families. From physical injuries to mental health challenges, The Fire Fighters Charity has been there to support us to continue in the job we love.

‘We asked what we could do to challenge and push ourselves to raise as much money for the charity as possible, and the parachute seemed like an exciting idea. I’m not sure how good an idea it will be when we’re sat with our legs dangling out of the plane.

‘We’d like to thank Purbani Botley and Storage on Site, who have both been amazing and have played a huge part in raising the amount of money we have to date.’