Joshua Hoyle, the Yorkshire youngster who is walking five miles to school each day even though he is learning from home, has so far raised an amazing £7,780 for SHINE.

Now supporters of the education charity, who have been inspired by Joshua’s efforts to help disadvantaged schoolchildren, have pledged to triple the amount raised by the end of the challenge.

Having previously offered to double the amount raised by the end of June, they have generously increased their commitment.

Joshua, who is unable to attend school due to Covid-19 rules, is making the long walk to school and back again each day until the end of term on July 17. To make the challenge harder, he is carrying an extra book in his back each day, up to a hefty 32 books by the end.

So far, 13-year-old Joshua has battled through heavy rain, soaring temperatures and stinging nettles on his early-morning walk, but he has kept on smiling.

His challenge has already drawn sponsorship from more than 230 individuals and won support from big names including health and education campaigner Sarah Brown, broadcaster June Sarpong, pro cricketer Tymal Mills and retired Test cricketer Sir Geoffrey Boycott.

Joshua has also made headlines around the world, even featuring in the pages of Chinese newspaper China Daily.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Joshua and to find out more about his challenge should visit his JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/joshua-hoyle. And remember, for every pound you donate, three pounds will go to help disadvantaged children.