A LLAY mum spoke of her pride after her son completed a gruelling challenge in aid of three charities.

The Leader reported recently how six-year-old Ieuan Thomas was planning to take on a 14 mile bike ride to raise funds for Hope House Hospice, Nightingale House Hospice and the Welsh Air Ambulance.

In the end the ride, which took place over the weekend, saw Park CP School pupil Ieuan complete a trip of more than 15 miles from his home in Llay to the top of Hope Mountain and back again.

Not only did he exceed the distance he set himself - he smashed his £600 fundraising target too.

The Leader: Ieuan at the top of Hope MountainIeuan at the top of Hope Mountain

Mum Lindzey Evans, 36, told the Leader she had been surprised when Ieuan suggested the challenge, which he decided on after seeing the many fundraisers currently being undertaken for charities across the UK.

Following the ride, she said: "He did absolutely great - he started to slow down a little in the middle when he got tired but he carried on. "Including his rests, the ride took five hours and 50 minutes.

The Leader: Ieuan takes a rest during the rideIeuan takes a rest during the ride

"He was certainly tired when he got home, but being six and full of energy he just needed a short rest and he was back to his usual self.

"In total, he had £1,303 donated and with gift aid it's just over £1,500 so he is really over the moon. "He absolutely smashed the target and me and his dad are extremely proud of him. "For a six-year-old to think about doing something lie that, and then to plan it and actually carry it out - we couldn't be prouder parents."