Boy, seven, takes on 40-mile walk for cousin with cancer

Video report by ITV Granada Reports correspondent Andy Bonner

A “kind-hearted” seven-year-old Manchester United fan is walking to Old Trafford from the children’s hospital in Liverpool where his cousin has been treated for cancer.

Harvey Goodman, from Warrington, hopes the 40-mile trek will raise awareness of the “amazing” work Alder Hey does.

His seven-year-old cousin Zak Mitchell was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer last June.

Harvey, who previously walked to raise more than £7,000 for a school playground, told ITV Granada Reports he was not worried about completing this longer trek.

"I'm only worried about the adults. Last time my legs didn't even hurt. All the adults were hurting," he said.

This fundraiser, which also aims to support Zak's family, has already topped the £20,000 mark.

Harvey and Zak were joined by scores of friends and family at the start of the mammoth fundraising weekend in Liverpool.

Zak's father, Danny, said, "I've never met a kid with such a big heart.

"He's come up with this all on his own with no help."

Zak has lost his hair after months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy at Alder Hey.

He is now in remission but will need to return to the hospital for x-rays and scans.

"Alder Hey has been a fantastic hospital while Zak has been having his treatment," Danny added.

"This is just another way of us repaying the hospital for everything they've done and all their hard work."

Cath Harding, Head of Community Fundraising at Alder Hey Children's Hospital, explains how important events like this are

Harvey’s 29-year-old mother, Naiomi, said, "It is phenomenal. I can't talk about it because it's so overwhelming."

"For a seven year old boy to come up with the idea, to then want to do the walk and to raise over £20,000, I'm forever grateful for everyone who's donated.

"It really is incredicble. "

Harvey is planning a "really big party" when he reaches Old Trafford, but he ultimately wants to do another charity walk to Wembley.

His proud mum added, "I'll try to put it off for another couple of years - but it will definitely happen at some point!"

Harvey’s fundraiser can be found here.