Burnley birthday boy's 'Rainbow Ride' to raise money for NHS

Oliver Wilkinson, who celebrated turning 11 last month, bought himself a birthday bike with the money he received and immediately set about putting his new wheels to charitable use.

The Christ the King pupil wanted to do something to help frontline staff during the Covid-19 crisis and is raising money for the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust after embarking on his very own 'Rainbow Ride'.

Oliver's aim is to ride 200 miles with his family throughout the lockdown period, a journey that is being documented on Strava for anyone wanting to keep track.

His has already peddled his way to 78 miles in just seven days, raising almost £600 in the process – anybody wishing to donate can do so here.

Proud mum Liz Wilkinson said: "He wanted to do something to to help frontline staff and services during the coronavirus pandemic, as he appreciates how difficult things are for them currently.

"He will be wearing a rainbow jersey on all his rides, so if you see him, please give him a wave and a cheer."