An inspirational Dawlish boy, whose infectious smile and sense of fun brought joy to all who surrounded him, has been remembered in a fundraising walk for Children’s Hospice South West.

George Kebell passed away in April at the age of 13 after living with the rare and life-limiting neurological condition, Ataxia-telengiiectasia (A-T).

To honour his memory and raise money to provide care for youngsters living with life-limiting conditions, George’s teaching assistant Kerry Baker gathered colleagues, friends and family to form the fundraising ‘George’s Army’.

On Saturday (September 13) they walked the 18-mile Templer Way, dressed in George’s favourite colour – pink. Their feat has raised £3,365 for Children’s Hospice South West.

George's Army completed the 18 mile Templer Way in memory to raise funds for Children's Hospice South West
George's Army completed the 18 mile Templer Way in memory to raise funds for Children's Hospice South West (Contributed)

Kerry cared for George while he was a pupil at Starcross Primary School. ‘I had the absolute privilege of working with George right through his primary school journey. I feel so blessed to have had that time with him. We shared so many fun moments, and we got up to plenty of mischief together,’ she said.

George Kebell when he first met teaching assistant Kerry Baker
George Kebell when he first met teaching assistant Kerry Baker (Contributed)

‘George was such a big part of the class. He was included, he made the most gorgeous friends, and every single day he had me belly laughing. He just brought sunshine into the school wherever he went,’ Kerry continued. ‘But more than anything, George is the inspiration. His bravery, and the way he kept smiling through his illness, is something I will never forget.’

George’s mum Cheryl, who also took part in the walk, said: ‘It’s incredibly humbling to be included in the ways others choose to remember George. We’re still very much in the thick of grief, and this day brings a wave of mixed emotions — the deep ache of missing him and the immense pride in how much he was loved by so many. There’s a saying many of us hold onto, especially on tough days or when we’re feeling unsure. It lifts us, grounds us, and gently reminds us to make the most of life: Be more George.’

Children’s Hospice South West provides hospice stays, emergency care, palliative care and end of life care at 3 children's hospices including Little Bridge House in Devon, where George stayed on several occasions.

To donate, visit the George’s Army JustGiving page.