A ‘YOUNG boy with a heart of gold’ walked up the highest mountain in Wales in last month’s heatwave to raise money for charity.

Daniel Williams of Talybont, Barmouth, told his mum and dad he wanted to climb Snowdon to raise money for cancer charities Macmillan and Cancer Research.

With help from his dad, the 10-year-old achieved his goal on Monday, 19 July, and is thrilled to have raised almost £300.

The Dyffryn Ardudwy school pupil and his dad, Alun, set off early in the morning to avoid the worst of the heat.

“Neither of us had climbed Snowdon before but we’ve talked about it for a long time,” said Alun.

“Daniel got it into his head that he wanted to do it, and raise money at the same time, so that’s what he did.”

Mum Helen said: “Over the last couple of months the topic of cancer has dominated television programmes and conversations, and when Daniel heard of a young lady of 39 losing her battle with cancer a few weeks ago he said ‘Too many people are affected by cancer and we need to help’.

“He decided to climb Snowdon on Monday, 19 July. He gave himself two weeks to organise everything - including going shopping to buy walking boots - and he said he would ask people to sponsor him.

“As it was short notice he only asked family and close friends for donations, with all money raised being equally donated to Cancer Research and Macmillan.

“Daniel wanted to raise money to help find a cure, but also wanted to help people suffering now the best he could.”

The kind-hearted youngster set himself a fundraising target of £100 and has raised £295 so far, via word of mouth only. Inspired by that, the youngster decided to keep the momentum going and, on Sunday, 25 July, walked Moelfre with his father, again to raise money for his chosen charities. And if people are prepared to donate, Daniel says he is willing to keep walking, and has set his sights on Pen y Fan and Cader Idris in the next few weeks.

Recalling Snowdon, Daniel said: “It was a very difficult walk going up the Pyg track.

“I was so excited and happy to reach the top of Snowdon at 9.30am with my dad. It was a clear morning and I enjoyed sitting down, having something to eat and drink looking out over Anglesey and the Ll?n Peninsula. The views were incredible.

“It was getting hotter as we walked down the Miner’s track but, luckily, we cooled off in Llyn Llydaw which was lovely. I thoroughly enjoyed my day with dad.”

He added: “To my granny and grandad, family and friends thank you very much for your generosity and support. I hope I can keep raising more money for these charities.”

Mum Helen added: “Alun, myself and Daniel’s brother Tommy are extremely proud of Daniel’s achievements and think he is an incredible young boy with a heart of gold.”

If you would like to donate, email [email protected].