A YOUNGSTER has completed an epic challenge to raise money for a new minibus for her sister's school.

11-year-old Phoebe Moffitt completed a 26km triathlon, inspired by the London marathon 2.6 Challenge.

Phoebe, with help from her cousins Louie and Anna, completed in the challenge in the grounds of Vallum Farm, which is owned by her mum Vicky.

Vicky explained: "Phoebe and Anna decided they wanted to do a fundraiser in lockdown. They were thinking who to do it for and chose the Priory because they need a new minibus.

"The minibus helps take children to access riding for the disabled, day trips, respite, swimming and lots of other therapies which they love.

"Poor Anna was then struck down by appendicitis and ended up in hospital so her brother Louie came to the rescue and took her place.

"Anna still managed a few laps round the pond and joined in on the ice bucket challenge at the end - something they said they would do if they beat their target of £1000."

The youngsters ran around the lake 18 times, cycled around afield 11 times, and each spent 30 minutes in a large paddling pool doing tethered swimming and kick drills.

Phoebe was raising money for Hexham Priory School's minibus appeal. Her sister Millie has a disability and attends the school.

The school is in desperate need of a replacement vehicle to replace one of its ageing adapted minibuses, which has been deemed too expensive to fix.

In February, headteacher Liz Davison explained that the school needed at least £35,000 for a new vehicle.

So far, Phoebe has managed to raise more than £3,400 - well exceeding her original goal of £1,000.

Donations can be made to the campaign at gofundme.com/f/please-sponsor-our-triathlon-challenge.