A pint-sized Lancaster fundraiser has received yet another award – this time from the Prime Minister.
Seven-year-old Oscar Burrow hit headlines across the globe earlier this year when he completed a mammoth endurance challenge, climbing 12 UK mountains to the height of Mt Everest.
The daring feat didn’t go unnoticed, and Oscar’s family were stunned to receive a Points of Light award from Rishi Sunak himself.
The youngster’s challenge has so far raised £40,000 for Derian House, the Chorley-based children’s hospice that cares for 400 babies, children and young people each year.
The cash is enough to send 40 families on a free week’s holiday to one of the charity’s fully-adapted lodges near the Fylde coast and the Lake District.
Oscar will be presented with his Points of Light award – reserved for outstanding people who are making a change in their community – in November.
MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale, David Morris, and MP for Lancaster, Cat Smith, will present Oscar with the award at his school – St Wilfrid’s, Halton – at a special ceremony.
Oscar said: “Wow, I have a certificate from the Prime Minister who runs the country.”
In June, Oscar also received a letter from Prince William – in which the future king congratulated him for his “efforts to fundraise for Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley.
Oscar’s Dad, Matt said: “It is amazing that Oscar’s challenge has captured the interest of so many people. He got a letter from Prince William last month and to now receive the Prime Minister’s Points of Light Award is fantastic.
‘’We hope all the interest raises further awareness of the great work Derian House does for the families of our region.”
But that’s not all, Oscar has also been nominated for two more awards.
The youngster is up for the Charity Fundraiser of the Year Award in the Best of Lancashire Awards and the Best of the Bay Awards 2023. The announcements will be made at the end of September.
“Oscar is really looking forward to the awards,” said Matt. “We have our fingers crossed, but whatever happens, we are so proud of everything he has done.”
Kerry Pritchard, Community Fundraiser at Derian House, said: “It’s amazing what Oscar has achieved for the children and families of Derian House, we are astounded at his dedication and energy.
“To receive a special award from the Prime Minister himself just says it all. Well done to Oscar! And good luck in the Best of Lancashire Awards, we all have our fingers crossed at Derian.”
It will cost £6million to run services at Derian House in 2023, and with just a small percentage of this coming from government funding, the charity relies on its kind-hearted supporters for 70p in every £1.
Based in Chorley, the hospice cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Friends from Morecambe to take on Ultra Marathon for brave toddler
Firefighters and swim centre team give key water safety message on Morecambe school visit
Police probe after stolen motorbike being ridden dangerously found in Morecambe
Man arrested in Lancaster after bridge jump hoax call
Local hospice wins national award for Will donation campaign
Cash boost for babies and families at Royal Lancaster Infirmary after fundraising at local golf club
Morecambe’s Pride in Place Board give update on West End investment programme
Children's play area in Lancaster opens after £118k revamp
Illegal tobacco and counterfeit clothing seized during raid on Lancaster city centre shop
Lancaster bowling green fundraiser hits target
Six food businesses in Lancaster district fail allergen tests
LISTEN: Stars of Morecambe and Wise stage show can't wait for Eric's 100th birthday
LISTEN: Thousands enjoy Wray Fair finale to annual scarecrow festival
PHOTOS and VIDEO: Incredible sand art on Morecambe beach honours Sir David Attenborough
Row over Morecambe FC debt as ex-directors' firm issues winding-up petition against club
Morecambe Pride handed £3,500 grant boost
North West awards delight for talented stars of Lancaster musicals
Music festival set for Lancaster over Bank Holiday postponed due to ‘ongoing planning’
Lancashire Police Museum in Lancaster celebrates fourth anniversary
Police investigate alleged sexual exploitation at Lancaster flat
