Pub helps Thornbury boy to go to World Kickboxing Championships

Schoolboy Harvey Pollard has set his heart on representing Great Britain in the sport’s World Championships in Italy after being crowned British kickboxing champion earlier this year.

But in order to attend the contest in October, the Castle School student needs to raise £3,500 for flights, accommodation and kit.

Harvey’s mum Emma contacted local businesses and said she was absolutely overwhelmed with the response and now Swan landlady Sandra Davies had also stepped in to help by organising a number of fundraising events.

Emma said: “I can’t thank the companies enough - their support will allow Harvey to go but Sandra is beyond fantastic, I’ve never met a woman like her.

“She been an absolute godsend. I didn’t expect the level of support she’s given us, she’s absolutely determined that we will raise the amount.”

The Swan will host four events across two weekends including a 24-hour sponsored dartathon, a car wash, tombolas and raffles.

Sandra said: “I fundraise to help people and this boy shouldn’t miss out when we can all help to get him there.

“Anyone can play in the dartathon just someone who will give their time to raise money for Harvey.”

Harvey, who began kickboxing when he was five, was selected in 2019 for Team GB for the European Championships but lost in the final.

Mum Emma said his determination means he his ready for the fight of his life.

“Harvey has won hundreds of trophies and been British Champion three times but to win the World Championship is what he’s always wanted, she said.

“I am so proud of him, he just keeps going, he’s cool calm and I know he will go out there and do what he needs to do.”

What Harvey had to say

Harvey added: “Sandra has been such a help, because of the fundraising- it means that I can go.

“If I win we will have a party at the Swan!”

The dartathon starts at 7pm on Friday, August 27 and runs for 24 hours.

For donate to Harvey’s GoFundMe page go to bit.ly/3p6OftA