A 'MAGNIFICENT' nine-year-old boy was handed an award for his inspiring dedication to supporting children's charities.

Harry Byrne, from Larkhill, has fundraised an incredible £95k for the charities that supported his little brother Reuben who was born was an extremely rare genetic disorder that has affected less than 20 people globally.

He was presented the Young Hero award at The Sun's Who Cares Wins ceremony on Sunday, September 24.

This year's awards celebrated the 75th anniversary of the NHS as well as recognised the healthcare heroes and volunteers who dedicate themselves to helping others.

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Harry was congratulated by many celebrities on the day including Davina McCall, Denise Van Outen, James Corden, Anthony Joshua, and Gary Lineker. 

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Harry for his fantastic achievement, he said: "What you’ve done is really remarkable. It’s an honour to meet you." 

Salisbury Journal: Harry with Bear Grylls, Denise Van Outen and Rishi Sunak.Harry with Bear Grylls, Denise Van Outen and Rishi Sunak. (Image: Dan Charity)

Salisbury Journal: Byrne family - Mum Sophie with Reuben, Dad Sean with baby Felix and HarryByrne family - Mum Sophie with Reuben, Dad Sean with baby Felix and Harry (Image: Sophie Byrne)

Sophie Byrne, Harry's mum, emphasised the meaning of the Young Hero award for her and her son. She said: "Harry truly doesn't know the enormity of his achievements and how truly magnificent he is.

"However, he does know how much he's helped to make a difference to the charities that have helped Reuben, simply as a token of his gratitude.

"This is so important to Harry, he saw first-hand the love and care Reuben received from the remarkable charities."

Salisbury Journal: Harry with his brother Reuben.Harry with his brother Reuben. (Image: Emma Stay)

 

Harry has been keeping his brother's legacy alive by fundraising through different challenges.

Reuben and his family received support from both Naomi House & Jacksplace and Julia's House before he sadly died in December 2021.

In January 2021, Harry raised more than £14,500 walking 45 miles over three days to cover the distance between Naomi House & Jacksplace and Julia's house.

Then he completed a 'race around the moon' during which he walked 6,786 miles in just three months.

Sophie Byrne, Harry's mum, said: "He truly wanted to prove to Reuben that he loved him to the moon and back.

"Not only did he raise lots of money but most importantly, wonderful memories were made."

Harry has no plans of slowing down with his fundraising challenges and will attempt to complete the National Three Peaks challenge in October 2023. To find out more visit justgiving.com/team/Mountaintrekkes.