FINANCE experts turned triathletes raised the cash needed to help a little boy live life to the full.
Fenham lad Charlie Rath has Down’s Syndrome and is full of beans.
Now, thanks to a team from Newcastle firm Deloitte, he has a specialist trike to go out and play with his pals on.
The corporate finance company has chosen the Chronicle’s Sunshine Fund as its charity for the year.
Staff from the firm put themselves through the gruelling challenge of the London Triathlon and have raised around £3,000 to help North East disabled children and their families.
Graeme Brough, senior manager at Deloitte in Newcastle, said: “I am delighted that our efforts in completing this year’s London Triathlon have helped Charlie receive a trike through the Sunshine Fund.
“Known as the world’s biggest and most iconic triathlon, a team of 11 triathletes from Deloitte competed in the Olympic distance which comprises a 1,500m swim, 40km bike and 10km run.
“The team worked incredibly hard, both at training and fundraising for the Sunshine Fund and we’re now close to the £3,000 mark, which is fantastic.
“It is clear that the trike will make a massive difference to Charlie and we’re all delighted at Deloitte to be able to help.”
Graham recently went to meet Charlie and his family to deliver the trike.
The trike means Charlie can enjoy the outdoors but he will also be safe.
Caroll Pattison, fund director of the charity, said: “It was lovely to introduce Graham to Charlie and his family so he could see the difference all his hard work competing in the London triathlon and fundraising has made.
“Charlie is such a special little boy who has been through so much in his short life that he totally deserves his trike.
“It’s through the generosity and support of companies like Deloitte that make it possible for us to support as many deserving children like Charlie.
“A huge thank you to all 11 triathletes and everyone at Deloitte in Newcastle for their support.”
For more information on the Sunshine Fund, visit http://sunshine-fund.org/
If you would like to hold a fundraising event, please get in touch with our events manager Clare Savory on [email protected] or 0191 201 6068.