A LITTLE girl has been having fun with a dinosaur to spread some happiness during lockdown.
Sophia Ankers, five, has walked one mile every day during February and her challenge, Sophia's Steps, has raised £1,300 for a children's mental health charity.
Mum-of-two Hannah came up with the idea to cheer her daughter up.
Sophia Ankers walking round Winsford with a dinosaur to lift people's spirits
Sophia Ankers walking round Winsford with a dinosaur to lift people's spirits
"Sophia has not taken to home schooling too well," said Hannah, 27, from Winsford. "One day she said to me: 'Mummy, I've lost my smile and can't seem to find it'.
"It really hit a nerve. I just came up with this idea to make a bit of our day as fun as possible. Every day Sophie puts on her bright yellow wellies and we go out for a walk.
"She is really happy now and I am unbelievably proud of her."
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Sophia having fun with a dinosaur
Sophia having fun with a dinosaur
Sophia, a pupil at Over St John's CE Primary School, has walked along Swanlow Lane, the Grange, Wharton, High Street and through the town centre.
Hannah launched a GoFundMe page for Young Mind Trusts, a charity committed to the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people.
Beauty consultant Hannah, who has a salon in Chester, said: "Mental health is close to my heart, suffering from a young age with mental health issues and eating disorders.
"A lot of children are feeling sad and lonely not being able to see their friends.
Sophia with mum, Hannah, brother Thomas, three, and dad Michael
Sophia with mum, Hannah, brother Thomas, three, and dad Michael
"I did this daily walk to get a smile back on Sophia's face and she says she is really glad now to be making other children happy.
"Every weekend we have been walking round Winsford with a dinosaur. Kids came out to wave and it just made her so happy.
"Every week she gets so excited. I never imagined Sophia would raise this amount of money, it has been fantastic.
Sophia always wears something yellow for her walks
Sophia always wears something yellow for her walks
"We want to thank everyone for waving, beeping their horns and all their lovely comments.
"I am very thankful to everyone for all the money raised.
"We're going to keep the walking up because it's made a massive difference and really lifts your spirits."
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