A FIVE-YEAR-OLD girl from Tremadog is travelling 50 miles on her scooter to raise money for charity.

Anni Collins set the goal to raise money for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).

Proud dad Andy said Anni was inspired by his friend, Frankie Tinsley, who recently completed the Talisman Triathlon.

“He travelled from Lands End to John O’Groats, swimming lakes Bala, Windermere and Loch Awe, and climbing the three biggest peaks, Snowdon, Scafell and Ben Nevis en route,” Andy explained.

“The aim of the challenge was to promote better mental and physical health, and raise funds for CALM in the movement against suicide.

“In 2017, we lost my best friend Andy to suicide. His passing inspired the Talisman triathlon and it inspires me every day to work to raise awareness of the need to talk and support each other through life’s many hurdles as well as the highs.

“Anni was intrigued by the triathlon, and this led to many conversations about people who might be less happy than others.

“One day while out on her scooter, she declared ‘I’m going to do 50 miles on my scooter to raise money for people who are sad’.

“We chatted about this, and told her it was quite the distance, but nothing deterred her.

Anni, who lives with Andy, mum Ceri and little sister Beca, hoped to raise £100, but the youngster’s efforts have attracted more than ten times that amount so far.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support of our local community, and are so proud that her efforts have now raised over £1,000 towards this worthwhile cause,” Andy added.

“Anni appreciates every single donation – she does a little dance every time we show her a new email that lets us know another donation has been made, and has been checking the front door every day to see if there are any envelopes from kind-hearted neighbours.

“She also loves to hear people beep to show their support as they’re passing by while she’s on her scooter!”

Anni has completed 24 miles and is determined to complete the 50-mile challenge.

“She is determined to carry on,” Andy said.

“In her own words, she said ‘If I feel sad or alone, I know I can talk to my friends, my mam, dad or my family.

“It makes me feel horrible to think someone else might not have anyone to talk to, so I want them to be able to phone someone if they are feeling that way’.

“Every week, 125 people in the UK take their own lives.

“My wife Ceri and I are extremely proud of Anni and hope the money raised can really make a difference to this statistic, as well as raising awareness of the help that is out there for anyone who is finding life hard at the moment.

“People really do care, and I hope this fundraising attempt proves that to someone who needs it right now.”

Anni has raised £1,120 so far. To donate to her fundraising page, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/her-anni-50