Wigan seven-year-old sets his sights on Snowdon climb

Leo Whitley, from Aspull, will summit Snowdon this summer to raise money for the Salvation Army.

The challenge comes as part of the seven-year-old’s year of fund-raising efforts after scooping an international pageant crown earlier this year.

Leo was crowned Pure International Prince UK last month, at the Pure International Pageant - a faith inspired, family-focused, and community-service driven organisation that allows contestants of any age, nationality, or religion to compete in a fun, friendly environment.

And his triumph was even more special given the many obstacles he has faced in his short life so far. He suffers from albinism and nystagmus, a vision condition in which the eyes make repetitive, uncontrolled movements. These movements often result in reduced vision and depth perception and can affect balance and coordination.

But he hasn’t let his conditions get the better of him, and, after his title win, organised a community litter pick with volunteers, helping clear away litter across Aspull.

His younger sister, Isabelle-Clare, is also the reigning Mini Miss Natural Beauty England, and has since been the face of local campaigns.

And now, Leo is turning his attention to conquering Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and second highest in the UK, behind Ben Nevis.

Proud mum Kellie said: “As part of his journey, he will be doing a sponsored mountain climb.

“With Leo having limited vision, this is going to be a very big achievement, and we’re hoping everyone will show their support and encouragement as he shows the world no matter what stands in front of you with hard work and determination you can achieve anything.”

As part of his pageant title, Leo has been hard at work volunteering in his community. He has a year of community projects ahead of him, and has already organised a litter picking event in Aspull which took place last month. All the money donated as part of the clean-up was donated in equal amounts to the Salvation Army and One House community hub in Aspull.

Kellie said: “I’m so proud of him. We come from not very much. The fact that the children have stood up and achieved what they have, is absolutely amazing.

“We were told Leo would never be able to read or write, or do basic things that kids do.

“He’s achieving above and beyond what we ever imagined of him.

“As a parent, to see him have the opportunities he is having now, it’s so overwhelming for me to see.”

Leo hopes his Snowdon trek will raise £2,000 for charity. Donations can be made to Leo’s fund-raising efforts at gofundme.com/f/leo-whitleys-mountain-climb