Three classmates from Lichfield have completed an inflatable 5k to raise money for the hospital caring for their school friend, who is receiving treatment for leukaemia.

Fourteen-year-old Theo Thompson, Zach Bate and thirteen-year-old Harry Roberts, wanted to raise money for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity after their friend, Jacob, was diagnosed with leukaemia earlier this year.

 Determined to make a difference  and challenge themselves at the same time, the trio decided to take on the fun and interactive inflatable 5k, in Wolverhampton, to show Jacob they were thinking of him.

With the help of their parents, the boys set up a fundraising page which raised over £2,000 in support of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.

Excited to tell Jacob about their adventure, the classmates were delighted when he announced he also wanted to get involved by cheering them on at the race, which only added to their motivation.

The boys hadn’t taken on any challenge like this before and had no prior experience with the obstacles which included slides, jumps and climbs.

Theo said: “The 5k was trickier than I thought it’d be and I found it quite tough in parts, but it’s nothing compared to what Jacob is experiencing so I persevered to cross the finish line to show him how brave we all think he is.”

Louise, Harry’s mum, added: “I’m so proud of the boys for taking on the 5k in recognition of their friend and thrilled at how much they managed to raise. It was inspiring to see them come together to help make a difference to children like Jacob.”

Miranda Williams, Head of Public Fundraising at Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, said; “It can be challenging having a friend in hospital, but these boys have taken their fear and channelled it into something amazing. We are so thankful for the incredible amount they raised. It will make a big impact on our patients and families as we continue to help our hospital provide world-class care and the very best treatments to thousands of sick kids from across the West Midlands and beyond every year.”