My apologies for not updating before now!

My first fundraiser was the collection of christmas trees from homes for recycling. For several days I distributed flyers door to door and, happily, the leg work paid off - I received many collection requests and spent the following week collecting trees from first thing in the morning to 9 or 10 each night. Many, many thanks to all the people who generously donated to such a worthy cause.

My second fundraiser took place at the beginning of this month. I “persuaded” my mother to host a coffee morning - little did I expect that I would be assistant baker and chief bottle washer! I also organised a raffle for the morning, and would like to take this opportunity to thank all the companies that donated prizes, including McAllister Volkswagen, Marks and Spencers, Lloyds Pharmacy, and Dylan Bradshaw Hairdressers - and also all the individuals who donated spot prizes to enhance a very special day.

Finally, I would like to mention my mentor Emma Fortune and also 100minds founder Declan Egan, whose constant encouragement greatly helped me in achieving my contribution to a good and worthwhile cause.