Harry Smith, a 12-year-old boy from St Albans, has won Young Fundraiser of the Year after completing a number of challenges in memory of his sister.

The JustGiving Award was given to Harry at a ceremony in The Roundhouse in London, after he raised £28,000 for The Brain Tumour Charity with the help of his mum, Sarah and dad, Andy.

The family have previously set themselves the challenge of completing a 192-mile coast-to-coast walk for Tom's Trust charity, which helped them through the grief of losing Harry's sister Emily.

Herts Advertiser: Harry's sister Emily, who sadly passed away in 2022.Harry's sister Emily, who sadly passed away in 2022. (Image: Tom's Trust)

Harry has now been presented with the award after swimming a mile, climbing Scafell Pike and cycling 75km from Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge to his home in St Albans – the journey home his sister was not able to make. 

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Emily Smith tragically died in August 2022, two weeks after an MRI scan revealed that she had a brain tumour.

In a speach written on the back of a photo of Emily, Harry said: "Thank you to everyone who has voted for me and donated.

"The money raised will make such a difference to help find a cure for brain tumours like Emily's. I'd also like to say a big well done to the other finalists, Alba and Seren, you are both incredible.

"I am dedicating this award to my sister, Emily, who I miss so much.

Herts Advertiser: Harry had written his speech on the back of a photo of Emily.Harry had written his speech on the back of a photo of Emily. (Image: Blackbaud / JustGiving)

"I hope I can continue to make her proud as I will be fundraising forever. Thank you."

Speaking of the importance of the charity's work, Harry continued: "Emily’s brain tumour was incurable, and this should not have been the case.

"Children should not die, they should have a future and a life ahead of them. My sister was only eight when she died and I miss her so much every day and it hurts.

"It physically hurts.

Herts Advertiser: Harry and his mum, Sarah at the awards.Harry and his mum, Sarah at the awards. (Image: Blackbaud / JustGiving)

“I chose the Brain Tumour Charity as they help fund research to find cures so that other children don’t have to suffer like Emily did.  

Gina Almond, head of fundraising at The Brain Tumour Charity, added: “Harry is just incredible.

"Not only has he raised a huge amount of money for The Charity, but he has also achieved an enormous amount at such a young age and raised so much awareness about brain tumours.  

"Well done Harry – on behalf of everyone at The Brain Tumour Charity!”   

Herts Advertiser: Harry giving his speech at the awards.Harry giving his speech at the awards. (Image: The Brain Tumour Charity)