Fleet-footed Jessica is set for Chestnut Tree House trek

Jessica Thomson is one of the youngest people to join the Chestnut China Challenge D14391220a

The 23-year-old, from Littlehampton, may have only signed up for the Poling-based children’s hospice’s Great Wall of China trek just over a month ago.

But she has already raised about £400 of the £2,800 minimum sponsorship target – with plenty more fundraising ideas still left in the melting pot.

Jessica, of Snowdrop Close, said: “I am quite excited. I would like it to be this October and not next year because it still feels like it is a long time away. But I’m really looking forward to it.”

So far, almost 30 people from across the area have joined the Chestnut China Challenge.

The aim of the nine-day adventure, which will be held from October 10, next year, is to raise enough money to pay for all the hospice’s bills and treatment costs for trip’s duration.

Jessica, a former student at the Littlehampton Community School, was inspired to join the trek when her mum saw it on Facebook.

“I just thought that Chestnut Tree House was amazing,” she said. “When I visited the hospice in August I got to see all the work they did to help make the lives of children better. I just knew I had to do something.”

So far, she has held a bingo night at the Vardar VIP Club and Restaurant, in Selbourne Place, Littlehampton, as well as a car boot sale and cake sale.

She is now readying herself to host a Hallowe’en and karaoke party at the Vadar, on October 31. The ‘spooktacular’ event is open to all and will kick off from 8pm.

Those joining the action can make a donation to sing – or pay to kick those who are already singing off the stage.

She is also planning a quiz night, auction evening and family party later this year.

Jessica is now urging others to join her. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to do something amazing and to help children who really need it.”

For more details on the challenge, see www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk or call 01903 706355.

Chestnut Tree is the only children’s hospice in Sussex and cares for about 300 infants and young people from across the area with life-limiting conditions.