A committed fundraiser has climbed the Great Wall of China in memory of James Bulger after striking up a friendship with his mother at the British Citizenship Awards.

Shane Yerrell briefly met Denise Fergus at the glitzy award ceremony last year, his presence in recognition of the support he offers terminally ill patients via his Waltham Abbey charity Through the Fight.

Mrs Fergus was there to be honoured for her bullying and bereavement support foundation For James, which was set up 19 years after the two year old was abducted and murdered in Liverpool.

The two sparked out a friendship and Mr Yerrell decided to hike a section of the Great Wall of China for the charity and in James’ honour.

On completing the walk, Mr Yerrell said: “It was one of the hardest things I've ever done and if I'm really honest I struggled at times. My legs have taken a beating But I kept going.

“I decided to do it after I met James mum Denise ladt year. She inspired me with the way she has turned a horrible experience into something positive and put her time into helping other kids and families who have gone through hard times

“I'd like to thank each and every person who have sponsored me and supported me in any way.”

So far Mr Yerrell has raised more than £2,000 For James.

To donate, go to https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/shane-yerrell-196