A DETERMINED 12-year-old ran an amazing 100km in just nine days to support a good cause that’s close to his heart.

Saxon Hawkins from Old Town tried to keep fit during lockdown by playing sport and already had a 5km and 10km run under his belt when he decided to set himself an enormous challenge.

His friend Evie Willis killed herself earlier this year at the age of just 15. Saxon wanted to raise awareness of mental health issues in her memory and ensure that other people who are struggling can get support they need.

So far, he’s raised thousands of pounds for the Samaritans, which works closely on suicide prevention.

Saxon crossed the final finish line on a scorching sunny day cheered on by a crowd of 50 socially-distanced well-wishers.

He said at the time: “I was shattered but getting back and finishing the run was the only thing on my mind.

“Despite the heat, I was confident I would complete the challenge because it was for such a good cause. I set out to raise £150 but my total raised so far is over £2,000, and I would like to thank everyone who has donated.

“Now I’m off for a very cold shower!”

Other members of the Hawkins clan rallied round Saxon to keep him in good spirits and spur him on during his marathon effort. His dad Billy, mum Jemma and older brother Josh often joined the lad on his laps.

He originally intended to do 10km a day for 10 days to reach his goal but then learned he was due to attend online schooling at the start of June.

So he took the bold step of aiming to complete the distance in just nine days - and smashed his target, raising more than anyone expected.

Mum Jemma said: “We heard that it costs the Samaritans £5 for each phone call they receive.

“So when the fundraising total hit £1,000 and then £2,000 it felt like he was helping hundreds of people and potentially saving their lives.”

“We are all really proud of him, he took it really seriously and put in a lot of effort.

"Once he’s got his mind on something, there’s no stopping him.

“He hit a wall on the sixth day because his ankles and legs were aching but he didn’t want to stop because he felt that people were relying on him to succeed.

“Seeing all the support he’s had from friends, family and all the donations helped keep him going, it’s been unbelievable.”

Saxon’s GoFundMe page has raised £2,400 for the Samaritans so far.