A RECEPTION pupil is raising money for her school with a sponsored bike ride.

Mia Newman, aged five, only started in September at Wentworth Primary School, Maldon and has been home schooled since the beginning of lockdown.

She heard about the school’s efforts to raise money for a new pool liner and decided she wanted to do something to help.

She came up with the idea of a cycle ride, since the family has been out on trips almost daily since the end of March.

On July 3 she will set off from her Maldon home and cycle, alongside dad, Ben, to her nan’s house two miles away.

After brief stop, the pair will return home to complete the four-mile sponsored event.

Mum Carmela and three-year-old sister Bella will be following behind to take photos and offer support.

A JustGiving page was set up with a target of £100, which has already been exceeded and currently stands at £170.

Carmela said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the support of friends and family who have smashed our target.

“Mia is buzzing and can’t wait to do her bit for the school.”

Wentworth Primary School, in Viking Road, Maldon, is making improvements to its pool area, with a new liner and wet room-style surround to help drainage.

Planned fundraising efforts, including the summer fete, have had to be cancelled due to lockdown, so the school PTA is asking pupils to complete a sponsored sporting event instead to help raise £15,000 for the project.

If you’d like to donate, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/MiaNewman4Miles?