A DETERMINED seven-year-old has run her first ever 5k in support of the children’s hospital who helped her vision improve.

Lilly Tochel, from Troon, has raised nearly £500 for the Crosshouse Children’s Fund, after regular outpatient appointments with the unit’s eye clinic.

The spirited youngster had been out running with her mum, covering distances of two miles a week.

But the Troon Primary 3 pupil was keen to go that extra mile and help other children during the coronavirus pandemic.

Proud mum Rachael told the Advertiser: “I saw that she was managing two miles really well so I thought maybe we could do something during this

lockdown and give her a target.

“She was really determined.”

Lilly ran from her home through her town, and was met with encouraging calls of support from residents.

Rachael set up an online fundraiser ahead of her big run and on completion, Lilly was given a medal and a certificate.

She said: “I’m so proud of her, she has been missing school and her friends, but when she received her certificate and medal she was so excited.

“It had a picture of a girl, Maisie, on it. Lilly thought that was great as she could see how she was making a difference to another child’s life.”

A delighted Lilly said: “I go to Crosshouse for my eye check-ups and they’re really nice to me there, so that’s why I wanted to help them with my run.”

The charity who are desperate for more backing from Ayrshire businesses or individuals like Lilly to get involved to help their urgent COVID-19 appeal, thanked the young super star.

William McGowan of Crosshouse Children’s Fund said: “Thanks to generous fundraisers like Lilly, we can help to support Ayrshire’s hospital heroes, and support the babies, children and young people in their care during this uncertain time.”

You can donate to Lilly here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rachael-tochel1

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