WILLIAM Hawkins may be only seven. But last week he took on the challenge of cycling every day to and from his Watchet home to Old Cleeve First School in Washford to raise money for a very special cause.

As a result of pedalling his bike a total of 27 miles, William has raised £459.50 for Dorset and Somerset air ambulance funds in memory of his great grandfather, William “John” Hole, and to thank air ambulance medics for their heroic efforts to save Mr Hole after he suddenly became critically ill in July 2019.

Sadly, he died shortly after arriving by helicopter at Taunton’s Musgrove Park hospital but William and his family were so grateful for the care he received that they started a fund-raising campaign for the air ambulance charity.

On Saturday, August 5, William’s mum Lucy Hawkins and Ryan Bosley will be following his example by taking part in the South West Coast 50 km Challenge, with hill climbs totalling 5,500ft.

Lucy said: “William wants to thank everyone for their support and kind donations which enabled him to raise a fantastic £459.50. He rode every day to school, come rain or shine, along one of his great grandfather’s favourite routes - the Old Mineral Line.

Lucy said that when Mr Hole suddenly became seriously ill the air ambulance brought specialist critical care doctors who were able to diagnose his condition. “Heartbreakingly, despite every type of care and support, he lost his fight 15 minutes after his arrival in hospital.

“The team on the air ambulance that day gave our grandad the best possible care and specialist medical attention. They also gave support to our mum during this extremely traumatic experience and we will be forever grateful for all they did for both of them.”

She added: “As a family we are taking part in challenges to raise as much as we possibly can for the air ambulance and show our gratitude and recognition for all they did for us and continue to do for our communities.

“During every step of our challenges we will think of grandad and the DSAA team.”

 To donate, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/teamwjh