A BIG-HEARTED youngster sacrificed his birthday presents to raise vital cash for charity instead.

Charlie Speary-Tyerman, who turned ten on Tuesday, is celebrating after his humble £100 fundraiser went through the roof thanks to family and friends.

Charlie, from Halstead, is an avid supporter of charity work and is always looking to do his part.

For his tenth birthday, he decided he didn’t need a present but wanted to raise money for charity after doing a project on refugee children at school - St Andrew's Primary School.

With the help of mum Victoria Speary, Charlie set up a Gofundme page to try to raise £100 for a children’s charity.

Victoria, 35, said: “Charlie told me that for his tenth birthday this year he would like to give his Christmas money to Save the Children.

“He genuinely hasn’t asked for anything else.

“Charlie has always had the biggest heart and the kindest of souls.

“I remember him sneaking my phone and texting the charity adverts on TV to donate. He always got so upset at the pictures and just wanted to help.

“My phone bill was massive that year!

“After a project on refugee children at school, Charlie wanted to do something to help, so started collecting crisp packets that could be sent away and made into blankets for the homeless and refugees.

“I woke up last week to a box he had made with a little sign on it which said ‘Please donate’. He had put all his Christmas money in it and was about to put it outside the front door.

“I explained that might not be the best way to do it so we looked into some charities and Save the Children really struck a chord with him and that’s who he has decided to raise money for.”

Victoria asked friends to donate just £2, but the fundraiser exploded with the total now sitting at £657.

She added: “It came very much as a shock and we’re very lucky to have such wonderful family and friends.

“I think people know Charlie has a heart of gold and they were more than happy to donate.

“He was absolutely glowing with each donation that came in. It’s been really good and made both kids feel they can make a difference.

“Charlie is over the moon.”