Kind-hearted Ben, 11, tackled 16-mile Exmoor Challenge for charity

Sidmouth Herald: Ben Fisher with his cheque to SENSE after completing the Exmoor Challenge. Ref shs 22-16TI 1285. Picture: Terry IfeBen Fisher with his cheque to SENSE after completing the Exmoor Challenge. Ref shs 22-16TI 1285. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

A tired but triumphant young sports star successfully tackled the 16-mile Exmoor Challenge to raise £1,000 for those less fortunate than himself.

Kind-hearted Ben Fisher, 11, of Howarth Close, says he is delighted to have collected the four-figure sum in sponsorship for Sense – a charity that works for deafblind people and those with sensory impairments.

The Sidbury Primary School pupil learnt map reading and orienteering skills especially for the gruelling challenge, but far from stopping there, he already has more fundraising plans in the pipeline.

Sports-lover Ben said: “It was very tiring.

“Right at the end, when we walked through the field, all the parents and teachers were there to welcome us back, which was a brilliant feeling.

“If I get the opportunity, I would definitely do it again. I’m very happy with how much I raised. I would like to thank everyone who sponsored me.”

He particularly thanked customers at The Anchor Inn – where his mum is duty manager – for their support and family friend Neil Philips, who encouraged and helped Ben with his fundraising for Sense.

Ben’s mum, Jo, said: “It was really good – he did an amazing job and we are really proud of him.”