AN 11-year-old girl has been shortlisted for a national award after raising more than £750 for the MS Society.
Darcie Janes, from Elmdon, started her fundraising adventure in honour of her mum, Alison, who has the illness.
She is one of three Young Fundraiser of the Year finalists to be recognised at the prestigious MS Society Awards on April 27.
When Darcie heard that her dad, Scott, was going to run the London Marathon last year to raise money for people affected by MS, she decided to help him reach his target.
After seeing the Cake Break fundraising campaign advertised on the MS Society’s website, Darcie decided to hold a bake sale in her local church hall.
In hope of raising as much money as she could, Darcie arranged a host of extra activities including a bake-off competition, raffle and games.
She also posted handwritten letters to local businesses and the Solihull Round Table, securing donations of refreshments and raffle prizes.
Darcie was nominated by her mum Alison, who said: “Although many of the people who came to the Cake Break were friends, family, and members of our local community, there were also strangers there.
“A lady with MS who had been feeling alone was connected to someone very active in the local MS Society group. Both had come after seeing Darcie’s advert in the local paper.”
In addition to writing a press release, Darcie put up posters and advertised through the local schools. She even stood up in church and addressed the congregation.
A delighted Alison said: “I am massively proud of what Darcie has achieved and find her a great inspiration for young and old alike. I think it’s lovely that the MS Society Awards recognise those who make a difference and we’re very much looking forward to it.”
