Boy, 8, dubbed Forrest Gump runs daily for homeless

An eight-year-old has been called the Forrest Gump of Glynneath after inspiring others to join his running challenge to help homeless people.

Lewys from the Neath Valley said he was so "sad" after seeing a homeless man in Swansea that he decided to run a mile daily for 26 days to raise money for homeless charities.

"He barely had any money in his cup, so we bought him a meal deal," explained Lewys.

"Seeing him made me feel sad. I felt like he was invisible."

Lewys wanted to raise enough money to buy 10 more meal deals.

But he has raised enough for about 700 so far, with other people inspired to join him - just like the movie character played by Tom Hanks that he has been named after.

As well as being joined by other runners, Welsh entertainer Max Boyce has also been to cheer him on.

"It's been really good," said Lewys.

"Some people have been calling me Forrest Gump because every day someone else joins the run."

Lewys' father, Wayne, said his son has become "a little celebrity in the town" while Lewys' mother, Rhian, said he has been receiving "amazing" support.

"Every day I get messages from people wanting to know what time he's running so they can join or show their support," she said.

Part of Lewys' fundraising efforts will support the work of Matthew's House in Swansea, a charity that provides food and a safe space for those in need.

It currently sees 129 people a day, an increase of 29% on last year, according to project manager, Thom Lynch.

"Lewys is representing a nation of people who can make a difference," he said.

"We absolutely love it."