Vicky McClure praises Nottingham boy for 'incredible' fundraising efforts for choir

Vicky and Jacob pictured together in August
-Credit: (Image: submitted)


Vicky McClure has praised a Nottingham boy for his efforts to raise money for Our Dementia Choir. Jacob Gadd, six and from Highbury Vale, has raised almost £2,000 after starting a running challenge in February.

The boy pledged to run the distance between Old Market Square and Skegness Beach over eight months, totalling 78 miles. Jacob, who has run alongside his dad, Alun Gadd, 50, will now complete his challenge as he prepares to run the Robin Hood Mini Marathon on Sunday, September 29.

The little boy wanted to start fundraising for Vicky McClure's Our Dementia Choir after the family lost a couple of family members in recent years to the disease. Linzi Nichol, Jacob's mum, aged 38, said: "We're really proud of him.

"He's blown us away with his determination because we thought he might give up in the bad weather when we've had rain. But he's still gone out and done his runs in the rain, even in the heat. He just never gave up."

Since February, Jacob has completed two hikes, six senior parkruns, 23 junior parkruns, 16 training runs, and a Mini Great North Run. The family has been to multiple Our Dementia Choir events in recent months, and Jacob even became attached to some of the members, asking to be made a volunteer.

His efforts were recognised by dozens of supporters who have donated £1,800 to his fundraiser. Linzi said: "He thinks it's great. He keeps saying he's proud of himself and he likes watching his Just Giving page.

Jacob is a big Nottingham Forest fan, often sporting his gear on his runs
Jacob is a big Nottingham Forest fan, often sporting his gear on his runs -Credit:submitted

"He is a big Nottingham Forest fan and we have had numerous comments on how he mostly runs in his beloved football tops and kits. He has had a lot of cheering along routes with fellow Reds shouting 'you Reds' to him which he has loved."

His support was also recognised by Vicky herself, who Jacob met in August. She said: "Myself and everyone at Our Dementia Choir are so grateful to Jacob and his family for all their incredible efforts and support.

"It was great to meet Jacob recently to thank him in person. Having support from the younger community is so important. Whilst Jacob is raising money for Our Dementia Choir he is also raising huge awareness around dementia. Huge good luck Jacob, we’ll be cheering you on!"

You can support Jacob's fundraiser here.