More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Five-year-old Tony Hudgell - known as Bear - has a surprise in store tomorrow.
But the double-amputee from Kings Hill knows nothing about it.
His adoptive mum, Paula Hudgell, said: "We were contacted by Team Brit who said they would like us to visit their base at Dunsfold Aerodrome so that they could give Tony something, but it was to be a surprise.
"I can't say much more, because I don't know myself!"
Inspired by lockdown hero Captain Tom Moore, Bear set out to walk 10km in June with the aim of raising £500 for the Evelina London Children's Hospital, which had saved his life as a baby.
Not only did he manage to complete the walk after doing a little distance each day, but with his final steps broadcast live on national TV, his heroic efforts achieved such publicity that he has now raised £1.6 million.
Bear, a pupil at the Discovery School in Kings Hill, walks with the help of crutches and prosthetic legs, after he suffered horrific physical abuse from his natural parents when he was a baby. Jody Simpson and Antony Smith were later jailed for 10 years for the abuse.
Team Brit is a competitive motor-racing team whose drivers all have some form of disability. The team's aim is to inspire people with physical disabilities, PTSD or mental health issues, by demonstrating what can be achieved through motor sport.
Spokesman Lucy Sheehan said: "Our founder Dave Player was so impressed with Bear's determination that he said he must meet this amazing young man and congratulate him on his tremendous spirit.
"We will be presenting Bear with an electric ride-on Range Rover with hand controls and also surprising him with a few other gifts, as well as making him an honorary member of Team Brit."
