A six year old fundraising hero has smashed his target of walking 100 steps unaided without the use of crutches.

Currently learning to walk on his prosthetic legs, Tony Hudgell from Kings Hill took on the challenge in a fundraising tribute to his hero Captain Sir Tom Moore, on what would have been the veteran's 101st birthday.

Before starting the challenge yesterday, Tony had only ever walked five or six steps unaided, having had both legs amputated in 2017 after suffering horrific abuse at the hands of his birth parents.

But his determination saw him reach the halfway mark in just one day, and today he completed the challenge.

Tony's adoptive mum Paula Hudgell took to Facebook to say she was "beyond proud" adding: "he's smashed 100 Steps today.

"Will also do steps tomorrow & Monday let's carry on supporting the amazing hospital that saved his life."

The incredible feat has seen Tony raise thousands of pounds for the Evelina Children's Hospital in London - where doctors and nurses saved Tony's life as a baby.

So far more than £32,194 has been donated to the JustGiving page, but with gift aid and donations directly to the hospital, the total is well over £50,000.

Speaking to Kent Online, Paula said: "When we originally set the target he had literally only taken three or four steps and he didn't have the determination to carry on.

"I thought we could do 25 steps each day but he's been so fired up to do this he just loves the challenge. As soon as you say it's a challenge he wants to do it and prove everyone wrong.

"I would like to think we could do another 50 each day. As a whole family we're just so immensely proud of him. He keeps us going - he kept us going through lockdown with his strength and determination. He never moans and he's always got a big smile on his face. He could teach us all some lessons.

"When Evelina asked us if Tony was up for a challenge he said 'yeah, yeah' straight away. He loves anything to do with Captain Tom, he absolutely adores him and he was really up for the challenge.

"We're forever grateful to Captain Tom and his family to keep inspiring my little boy because without him he wouldn't have walked these steps without crutches. It's just opened up so many more avenues for him."

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