Newbury girl Jess takes on hill challenge for Children with Cancer UK and Captain Tom 100 Challenge

A GIRL from Newbury walked 100 times up and down a steep hill to raise money for children with cancer and as part of the Captain Tom 100 Challenge.

Jess Bowsher, nine, took on the challenge on a hill near her home in Dalby Crescent, Newbury, over a two week period and raised more than £600 for the charity Children with Cancer UK.

Despite not usually enjoying walking, Jess set herself the challenge after being inspired by her teachers at the Willows Primary School and to participate in the Captain Tom 100 Challenge.

Jess said: “I really wanted to help children less fortunate than me and who aren’t able to walk up hills.

“The pandemic has been tough on everyone, but particularly hard for children with cancer.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported me and joined in, I have had a lot fun doing it.”

Over the course of the challenge, Jess spent over five hours walking and climbed a total elevation of 1,330 metres, just 15 metres less than Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain.

Jess started the challenge on April 19 and completed it on Sunday (May 2), when she walked 29 times up and down the hill.

On her final repetition, socially distanced friends and family clapped and cheered, and Jess celebrated with a chocolate medal.

Before Sunday, Jess had completed 71 hill walks, including 32 on the Sunday before the bank holiday.

Her mother, Helen Bowsher, said: “I am really proud of Jess for taking on this challenge, despite her not normally enjoying walking.

“She has never done anything like this before but has really thrown herself into this challenge.

“It has been great being part of the Captain Tom 100 challenge whilst raising money for such an important cause.”

Jess fitted the challenge around her usual school routine and was sometimes joined by friends and family on her climbs.

She listened to music while walking and even ran up and down the hill on a few occasions.

The initial fundraising target was £100, however this was surpassed several times.

The Captain Tom 100 Challenge was set up to commemorate Captain Tom’s 100 laps and to raise money for UK charities.

Children with Cancer UK is dedicated raising money for research, treatments and to provide care for children with cancer and their families.