Community Heroes: Norwich City v AFC Bournemouth

Collectively, Bradley Carver, Aaron Ling and Luca Rayner raised over £2,700 last month, as part of the Community Sports Foundation’s Squad Goals Challenge initiative.

Themed around the Canaries first team, the fundraisers challenged participants to set a personal challenge relating to their chosen player’s shirt number.

Bradley Carver, aged eight from Dersingham, chose Oliver Skipp and his number 20 shirt as the inspiration behind a 20-mile cycling challenge. A keen footballer, Bradley decided to complete the challenge to help keep his fitness levels up over lockdown, and to support the Foundation’s work with those from disadvantaged backgrounds or with disabilities.

Bradley, who ended up cycling an additional five miles, said: “I found the challenge tough because of the coastal wind and rain, but was determined to complete it. The funniest part was watching my Daddy try to keep up with me.”

Seven-year-old Aaron Ling, also from Dersingham, chose Max Aaron’s number two shirt as the basis for his challenge: to scooter two-miles every day for two weeks.

Aaron’s mother Claire said they were bowled over with the support that he received from everyone in the village: “People would stop in their cars to give him a pound, and we even had envelopes containing donations put through our letterbox. It was amazing.” On the final day of the challenge, Aaron was given a hero’s welcome at the finish line by the Sandringham Fire Service.

Finally, six-year-old Luca Rayner from Sprowston, inspired by a family friend’s run for charity, chose to run a mile for 17 days straight in homage to his favourite player, Emi Buendia.

Luca’s mother Emily said: “It was a tough challenge for him, being only six, but he was determined to do it to raise as much money as possible to support the amazing work the Foundation do.”

“We’re so grateful to everyone who took part,” said Emma Fletcher, the Foundation’s fundraising and events manager.

“As well as those running, cycling and walking, we had fundraisers dancing, squatting, and completing random acts of kindness in their community. Not only has the challenge raised close to £14,000, it has also encouraged families to be active and enjoy the outdoors over lockdown.

“Bradley, Aaron, and Luca, in particular, raised a super amount through their own challenges, and we’re delighted that the club is honouring their efforts.”

Do you think you know someone who could be nominated for our Community Hero award? If there is anyone that you think deserves special recognition, whether the individual works in the emergency services, is a carer or charity champion – nominate someone by visiting the Community Hero page on www.canaries.co.uk.