Kendal girl completes 18 challenges in 24 hours

Zoe Butler, of Kendal, celebrated by completing 18 challenges in 24 hours, to raise money for charity. All the tasks – which included reaching the top of the indoor climbing wall in Kendal and singing in front of her year group – were set by people she has known through her life.

The Kirkby Lonsdale Queen Elizabeth School pupil said: “I contacted teachers, friends and family I had met every year since I was born, and they all thought of an idea.

“I used to do climbing when I was younger and I sang in a choir, which is where those challenges came from. The climbing wall was my favourite of the day.”

During her school day, Zoe also made a den big enough for 18 people, sold 18 mince pies in 18 minutes, made 18 angel decorations and named all the Kings and Queens of England.

Deputy headteacher Cathy O’Neill said: “Zoe did a fantastic job. She has been a real asset to the school community and it is typical for her to do something like this – to raise money and to think of other people.”

Although she has fundraised in the past, this was Zoe’s biggest event to date and totted up more than £500 to be split between Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research and the Rosemere Cancer Foundation.

“My cousin Pippa died of leukaemia aged 12 so I like to remember her by raising money for those in similar situations. Rosemere has helped in my health and social class at school so I wanted to give something back to them. Both are such fantastic causes.”

Anne Sweeney, of the Rosemere Cancer Foundation, said: “Zoe has done something quite unique in memory of Pippa which has really captured people’s interest. By raising money for us, she is making a huge difference to the lives of local cancer patients and their families.”

Parents Shaun and Sharron were very proud of their daughter.

Shaun said: “It is just who Zoe is – she is always thinking of others and wanting to do something worthwhile.”

To donate visit Zoe’s fundraising page www.just giving.com/Zoe-Butler2