Seven-year-old raises thousands for Haiti quake victims

A seven-year-old boy from west London has raised more than £69,000 for the Haiti earthquake relief effort by organising a charity cycle ride.

Charlie Simpson, from Fulham, cycled five miles (8km) around South Park near his home to raise funds for Unicef's earthquake appeal.

The fundraising total outstripped his initial £500 goal, after he put an appeal on the JustGiving website.



On his JustGiving page, Charlie said: "I want to do a sponsored bike ride for Haiti because there was a big earthquake and loads of people have lost their lives. I want to make some money to buy food, water and tents for everyone in Haiti."

David Bull, Unicef's UK executive director, said: "This is a very bold and innovative gesture by Charlie that shows he connects with and not only understands what children his own age must be going through in Haiti, but is also wise enough to know that he can help them.

"The little seed - his idea - that he has planted has grown rapidly and his is a place well-deserved in the humanitarian world. On behalf on the many children in Haiti, I thank Charlie for his effort."

With news video.