Corey steps up for holiday centre

A nine-year-old boy from Derby is putting his best foot forward in aid of Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre.

Throughout this month, Corey Dobson, of Spondon, is aiming to walk 100 miles to raise money for the charity, which since 1891 has been providing stays at its specialist centre in Skegness for children who might not otherwise get a break.

Corey himself has enjoyed three free holidays with the charity.

It was the first time that Corey, who has high functioning autism, had been away from home. Mum Angie said it had been a great experience, giving Corey valuable confidence plus much-needed respite for her.

She said: “I think the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre is amazing. They have been around for a long time. I know people who went there as a child and loved it. It’s just such a nice thing to have and to be a part of. I think what they do there is just brilliant.”

Corey was inspired to take on the walking challenge after hearing the centre would not be opening for holidays this year, while it works to fundraise and come back in 2026.

He hopes to smash his challenge by walking in his local park and round the field at lunch time, as well as undertake additional fundraising by organising charitable bake sales at his school.

He said: “I’m going to do the walking every day and see if I can do even more!”

To sponsor Corey, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/angela-dobson-1.