Boy, 10, is a 'credit to the city' after incredible Zoe's Place gesture

People have praised the efforts of a 10 year-old boy who has raised over £10,000 for Zoe’s Place. The centre on Yew Tree Road in West Derby provides vital support for babies and children up to the age of five.

However, children and families received the devastating news on Monday, October 7 that the centre would close before the end of the year and staff would lose their jobs in 30 days time. Anthony Demellweek, like many others in Merseyside and beyond, has chipped in to try and save the hospice, which has a close connection to his family.

Anthony’s sister Amelia, nine, has cerebral palsy, scoliosis and epilepsy, leaving her unable to walk or talk. She was treated at Zoe’s Place when she was younger. After hearing about the news Anthony, who is also a keen mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, decided to run 48 miles in aid of Zoe's Place over the course of 20 runs to raise money for the hospice.

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He was supported along the way by the likes of ‘Meatball’ Molly McCann, who is a close friend of Anthony’s mum Faye, Paddy ‘the Baddy’ Pimblett, Jamie Webster and Adam Rowe.

Anthony completed his challenge last Friday, when he came to Zoe’s Place pushing Ameila in her wheelchair. The schoolboy’s arrival was greeted with a sea of blue and yellow flares. Louis, who is being treated at Zoe’s Place, along with staff members from the hospice greeted Anthony with a sign thanking him for his efforts.

In a touching moment, Anthony handed over his Zoe’s Place t-shirt to Louis. This gesture left many present including staff from Zoe’s Place in tears. Many ECHO readers have supported Anthony’s efforts over the last few weeks. Commenting on the ECHO’s app, one said: “Well done to the young lad, credit to his family.”

Another said: “Well done Anthony, that is a brilliant effort and to raise so much money, you are a credit to your family and this city.” A third person added: “What an amazing and caring young man.” A fourth said: “We all stick together, Scousers forever.”

On the ECHO’s Facebook page, Toni Foulkes said: “Superstar this kid, massive heart he wears on his sleeve. He knows first hand what it’s like to live with a sibling with special complex needs and how important Zoe's Place Baby Hospice Liverpool is. 10 years old so humble and kind - we love you lad.”

June White said: “Well done Anthony, you're a true hero. What a legend you are. Liverpool are proud of you kid.” Joanne Newcombe added: “Unbelievable kid, you are a true champion. Well done Ant.”

There is 8% to go to reach the target to save Zoe's Place. The overall fundraising target stands at £6.4m, with £1.4m already raised before the campaign to raise an extra £5m began. At the time of writing, there is just over £5.9m on the fundraiser, meaning around £490,000 is required before November 9. To donate to the campaign click here.