A WOODLEY schoolboy is almost half way through his epic year-long fundraiser to give back to the nurses that supported him.

Dexter Rosier, nine, of Woodley, embarked on an exciting challenge in January where he is running one mile a day for a whole year.

The youngster is raising money for Royal Berks Charity and has so far raised £530 for the paediatric appeal.

Starting on the first day of the year, Dexter has been out for a run every day so far, with the support of his parents,

When Dexter was just four-years-old he spent one month on the Lion Ward with a broken leg.

He said: “During my time in hospital the play team were amazing.

“Every day they wheeled me in my bed to the play room and I got to play from my bed just like all the other children.”

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He said he also got to do art and cooking during his time on the ward.

“It’s thanks to them that my hospital experience was so positive and I have really happy memories of my time there,” he said.

“I want to help other children have this same positive experience.”

Dexter is no stranger to running as he also ran a marathon over ten days in lockdown.

And he took part in another one in 2021, to also raise vital funds for The Royal Berkshire Hospital.

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Dexter’s mum Samantha said he is very determined to complete the challenge.

She said: “We are so proud of Dexter, he’s kind, cool and he shows empathy.

“He’s always helping other people and is thoughtful and he just wanted to give back to the nurses who helped me on the paediatric ward.”

Samantha added Dexter has had a great response from supporters so far.

Dexter thanked those who have already donated to his Just Giving page.

He said: "Thank you very much to everyone, it really helps me sometimes and keeps me going seeing the donations come in."

Visit Dexter's Just Giving page to donate.