‘Supergirl’ Eva rides in to boost NHS charities

However, Eva Barton really has ‘ridden’ to the challenge.

Inspired by the heroic efforts of Captain Tom Moore, the Horncastle Community Primary School pupil has just clocked up 100 miles to raise funds for NHS charities.

Eva completed her century last Friday and has already raised £900 plus £144 in Gift Aid.

However, donations can still be made and mum Jay is hoping the money will continue to roll in.

Jay said: “When Eva saw what Captain Tom had done, she said she wanted to do something to raise money for the NHS staff and volunteers doing amazing work in caring for Covid-19 patients.

“Her dad and I sat down with her and thought things through.

“It had to be something that would capture people’s attention and we came up with the idea of cycling 100 miles in a month.

“She started in the middle of last month (May 10) when it was really cold and windy.

“She’s just kept going and she did the last mile last Friday.

“She’s been brilliant. We’re so proud of her.”

Eva covered most of the miles on the Spa Trail - and in and around Horncastle.

She was always accompanied by her mum or dad, Paul.

Jay added: “She’s been really determined and she’s gone out every day - whatever the weather.

“Apart from one small incident when she fell off (her bike) and grazed her knee, she hasn’t had any problems.”

Jay, who works at Chandlers in Horncastle, admits the challenge has kept Eva busy during the enforced break from school.

She added: “We’ve managed to combine the cycling with her home schooling.

“She’s enjoyed it and we’re wondering what she will want to do next!”

Jay said there were no direct family links with the NHS and it was Captain Tom who provided the inspiration.

She explained: “We saw him on TV and that was the start of it.”

Jay thanked family and friends for their support and is hoping the wider public will support the same charity Captain Tom donated all his money to.

She added: “I’m not sure if there’s anything specific it will go towards, but I’m sure it will help.”

As for the future, Eva is very much keeping her options open.

Jay added: “She has talked about being a nurse, but then she seems to want be something different every day!

“She does miss her friends from school but she’s really happy and that’s the important thing.”

•To donate to Eva’s mission, click here