Albie takes on running challenge to raise money for children in hospital

A young Teessider has set himself the challenge of running 100k in four weeks – all in a bid to raise money to support children in hospital.

Nine-year-old Albie Rice from Billingham has raised money every spring for the past four years for charities close to his heart. Last year saw him complete 650,000 steps – almost 220 miles – to raise money for local food banks and he has also fundraised for a local care home and cancer research.

His latest venture sees him supporting the children’s ward at the University Hospital of North Tees, where he has previously received care. He is aiming to raise as much as he can to buy toys and activities to benefit young patients staying on the ward – to make their hospital stay a little brighter.

Albie said: “Staying in hospital sometimes isn’t the best so I hope I can bring some smiles. I love being able to help.”

“Amazing” Albie

Less than two weeks into his challenge, Albie has already run 55km and has already beat his original target of £500.

Mum Alex said: “Albie’s just amazing and he’s so excited that he’s raised so much money already.

“He really does change when he does his yearly challenge – he becomes so determined. We’re so proud of him.”

Alyson Thompson, manager of the children’s ward, added: “We are so grateful to Albie for taking on this challenge. All of us on the children’s ward just think he’s amazing.

“We know hospital stays can be worrying for children and their families. For Albie to choose our ward for his 2026 fundraiser and help brighten that experience for our patients just goes to show how thoughtful he really is.

“A big thank you from all of us on the children’s ward to Albie, his family and all of his supporters. It really means so much to us.”