A FIVE-YEAR-OLD boy from Redditch was so moved when he saw an RAF charity advert on television that he decided to give his birthday money away.
The generous youngster, Henry Conway, who turns six on October 31, has decided to donate his birthday to the charity which supports RAF veterans.
The RAF Benevolent Fund’s latest TV ad, titled Show Your Pride, features Battle of Britain veteran Stan Hartill, double amputee Stuart Robinson and widow Jacqui Thompson.
Watching with his parents, Leo and Elizabeth, Henry was immediately moved by the ad.
Dad Leo, aged 50, said: “We’d been talking to Henry about what he wanted for his birthday. When he saw the ad, he said ‘Daddy I think I should give them some money’.
“I asked if he wanted it as part of his birthday present and he said ‘yes’ straight away.
“He’s always been such a caring child that always wants to share. At only five years old it surprises me how socially conscious he is and how comfortable he is around adults, especially the older generation, he naturally gravitates towards them.
“This might be why he was so inspired to make a contribution after seeing Stan on television.”
Henry was delighted to find out he could help, so Leo went online and made the generous donation on Henry’s behalf.
The charity supports current and former members of the RAF, their partners and dependents providing financial, practical and emotional support. Last year, they spent £17.6m supporting more than 65,000 members of the RAF Family.
“When Henry received his thank you card in the post he was chuffed. He’s been wearing his RAF Benevolent Fund pin badge ever since,” added his dad.
“We are beaming with pride, and always are. He’s a very special little boy who we love to bits and he makes us laugh every day.”
Henry will celebrate his birthday in Redditch with a family meal and a bowling party with friends later in the week.
