See this nine-year-old theatre fan's amazing effort as he steps up to help his beloved Customs House in South Shields

Stephen Idle, of Nora Street, South Shields, has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair to get around most of the time.

But the Bamburgh School pupil has challenged himself to walk 200 metres every day over the last six weeks, to raise much needed funds for the Customs House.

Stephen is a huge fan of the Customs House – often returning to the same performance multiple times, dressed in costumes created by his nana, Sandra Scott.

The Mill Dam theatre was forced to close its doors on March 16 and cancel all upcoming shows until further notice.

Like many arts venues across the country, it is facing an uncertain future with the loss of revenue and a lack of guidance for when it may be able to reopen.

Stephen has now raised over £1,000 walking to the corner shop and back using his walker.

He will finish his challenge with one last walk outside the Customs House on Saturday, July 25.

Stephen’s mum, Helen Scott, 39, said: “Stephen was devastated when The Customs House had to close and when he got his walker home from school, he said he would walk 1,000 miles for The Customs House to be open again.

“This gave us the idea for him to do a sponsored walk for The Customs House and also an incentive to use his walker.”

Stephen has completed his walks in fancy dress, including many of his favourite Customs House pantomime characters.

“Stephen can't go to The Customs House in normal clothes, he always dresses as one of the pantomime characters,” Helen added.

“We’re really proud of him, he’s found it challenging at times but he’ll do anything to see the Customs House open again.”

Customs House executive director Ray Spencer commented: “In these the darkest of days there is always a light, a sign of better tomorrows, and Stephen is that sign. Despite his own considerable challenges he wants The Customs House not just to survive but also thrive. With his support and the community of South Tyneside we will get through this.”

Donate to Stephen’s fundraiser here

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