A YOUNG boy who was helped by a local children’s centre to improve his speech at an early age has decided to give something back to the charity by taking on a sponsored running challenge.

Nine year-old Jack Brundrett, who lives in Coleford, is raising funds for the Forest of Dean Children’s Opportunity Centre by running there and back from his house 40 times, with the charity celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

Jack was helped by the centre to improve his communication skills ahead of starting school having been referred to a speech and language therapist aged two-and-a-half, as he had a limited vocabulary.

The therapist recommended the centre because of the specialist training of the staff, whom his mum Catherine said were “fantastic” with him from the off.

They provided Jack with a strict diet and helped him to access other services, putting into place a bespoke MyPlan at an early age.

Catherine explained: “By the time he started school although he still had a limited vocabulary, the staff had given him the skills to be able to communicate, whether through sign language, makaton or using pictures.

“Now aged nine you would never know he had any speech issues. A lot of that is down to the staff at the centre giving him the confidence to communicate!”

Now, Jack is looking to raise as much money as possible for the centre, having already received more than £200 on JustGiving, £40 in physical donations and nearly £300 in pledges.

He decided that running was the best way to raise funds, despite suffering from asthma and none of his family being runners, after being inspired by a BBC Points West story about another boy running for charity.

Jack, who plays football for Puma Juniors of Cinderford, will run from his house on Sunnybank to the centre on Bowens Hill Road - around half a mile - and back again 40 times this year, with Catherine posting regular photos and updates on his JustGiving page.

“We’re really proud of Jack”, Catherine said, “He’s not grumbled, he’s not complained, every time we’ve said ‘shall we do your run Jack?’ he’s said ‘come on, let’s get going!’

“It’s a nice distance for him - although the hill is quite big - but he just keeps on going”.

The Forest of Dean Children’s Opportunity Centre supports local families and children with a range of additional needs, providing care, facilities and support groups “which enable all children to grow and learn together”.

Catherine added that the centre is planning a “big finish” for Jack’s last run on September 9.

To support Jack with his fundraising challenge, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/catherine-brundrett.