Siblings cycle to help critically ill children

A brother and sister team from Thame have pushed the pedals in aid of the Oxfordshire-based Children’s Air Ambulance.

Joshua (10) and Elouise (7) Foster took up the brilliant challenge of cycling 32 miles each over the 28 and 29 November, raising lifesaving funds for the charity which flies critically ill babies and children from one hospital to another for urgent specialist care.

Accompanied by their parents Richard and Suzi, the siblings started their cycle challenge around Thame, out to Princes Risborough and back to the other side of Thame – a safe route avoiding many main roads.

“We had some cold fingers and toes and a couple of falls – without injuries – but neither Josh or Elouise moaned once and were very determined to earn the generous sponsorship that has been given,” said Suzi.

The duo are members of #TheCrew, an exciting club for children linked to the lifesaving charity and had recently achieved their Silver Awards for their previous fundraising efforts for the children’s charity.

When asked why they undertook this next challenge for the Children’s Air Ambulance, Josh said, “because it’s such a good charity” and Elouise expressed how she cares about other children and wants to help them.

“Josh and Elouise are extremely passionate about the charity – when they saw that the Princes Risborough charity store was closed during the lockdown, they hoped their new fundraising efforts would help towards making up some of the money that has been lost,” said Suzi.

“With their target set at £250, they are delighted to have raised £690 so far, and we are all so proud of them,” she added.

Grateful for the sibling’s continued fundraising for the charity, Community Fundraising Executive Anna Phillips said:

“What a challenge for Josh and Elouise to complete, and such a brilliant amount to have raised! Both are truly inspirational in their support for the charity.

“This year has been a tough one, with all our stores closing during both lockdowns, and fundraising events being cancelled, we have needed the public’s support now more than ever – and these two dedicated youngsters’ fundraising efforts have certainly helped in keeping our helicopters flying their lifesaving missions, supporting the NHS.”

Anyone wishing to support Josh and Elouise, please click here