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Shorne schoolboy starts sock collection for Medway Street Angels

A schoolboy has been collecting socks as he sets on a mission to clothe the homeless.

Harry Rudden-Vine, nine, started the donation bin at Shorne Church of England Primary School, Shorne, after he was inspired to do more to help others in the community.

Harry, nine, set up a sock collection at his school. Picture: Shorne Church of England Primary School
Harry, nine, set up a sock collection at his school. Picture: Shorne Church of England Primary School

His mum Clair Rudden-Vine, 49, said: "Harry is always thinking about what else he can do. We talk a lot about people that are less fortunate than us.

"He had this idea about the socks from talking about people who are homeless and the winter. The school has been behind him all the way. Harry was really touched that they liked it.

"Harry has not stopped there and has been writing to large companies to ask if they would also support his idea by donating some socks from their retail stores."

The NHS worker said Harry started thinking about what else he could do for others after he won a national award for working in his school's peace garden – a space where pupils can go to reflect.

Children from across the school have been donating throughout January. Picture: Shorne Church of England Primary School
Children from across the school have been donating throughout January. Picture: Shorne Church of England Primary School

He even wrote to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge about the scheme after the couple advocated the outdoors as a way of supporting mental wellbeing.

Clair added: "Harry wants to do more for others and being acknowledged by this award and the Duke and Duchess' letter really boosted him in thinking of more ways to help and support people.

"At the award ceremony there were so many other people that had done amazing pieces of work, that upon listening to some of those stories, it gave Harry more ideas to continue to support others.

"The evening really inspired Harry further. It was a real focus to continue with 'doing more' in Harry's words."

Harry with the letter he received from the Royal couple. Picture: Clair Rudden-Vine
Harry with the letter he received from the Royal couple. Picture: Clair Rudden-Vine

All the pupils at the school in Cob Drive have been collecting socks throughout the month to donate to Medway Street Angels, a charity which supports people who are homeless.

Acting head Sarah Prest said: "We are so proud of Harry and our children for seeking ways to support the local community and for being courageous advocates for a charity that can make such a difference to the lives of others.

"We are grateful to local residents who have sent in socks too. The children wish to continue supporting Medway Street Angels and other local charities."

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