12 year old cycles a 100 miles in memory of his mum and raises thousands for Norfolk charity

"His mum would be super proud of him," says Frank Spaul's dad.

It was Frank's first ever 100-mile ride and the 12 year old says he was worried he may not finish, "Once I started cycling, I felt better, and kept going to the end. I just focused on getting to the next stop. I was relieved to get to the end and finish but I enjoyed the whole experience."

He took part in the 2025 Tour de Broads at Octagon Park in Little Plumstead in August raising more than 3 thousand pounds for Nelson’s Journey, a specialist child bereavement support service open to all families in Norfolk.

Frank, from Cringleford, did the ride in memory of his mum Danielle, who sadly passed away 2 years ago. The pair used to love cycling together, “I wanted to raise money for Nelson's Journey because it helped me get through tough times.  I feel very thankful for everyone who has supported me and all the kind messages."  Adding that he thought of his mum, especially towards the end.

Frank with his mum Danielle

Family friends Jessica Croll-Knight and Paul Wilson along with dad David joined Frank for support.  David says, "I am always super proud of Frank and all his achievements, and to do something like that at his age is amazing. It was great to be part of the journey."

He's also grateful to Nelson's Journey, "The guidance they have given us has been really good and very helpful for Frank."

Jessica Croll-Knight, Paul Wilson, David and Frank Spauls

David adds, "Danielle would be super proud of Frank, and the way he is growing up and dealing with all life's challenges. She would be the first person to be there cheering him on and supporting him."

Gary Stevens, Nelson's Journey's Funding & Marketing manager describes his fundraising efforts as 'nothing short of phenomenal', "To see Frank cross the finish line in Little Plumstead, surrounded by the family and friends who rode the whole 100 miles with him, and to get to hand him his medal, was truly inspiring."

9 year old Harry Tarling and Poppy Nelson, who's six, also did shorter Tour de Broads routes, raising hundred of pounds for the charity.

Well done Frank, Harry and Poppy!