A young boy is undertaking an ambitious walking challenge in memory of a family member.

Ellis Kent, aged ten, is attempting to become the youngest individual on record to complete the entire 185-mile Thames Path in one continuous effort.

The route, stretching from the river’s source in the Cotswolds to its mouth at the Thames Estuary, is being covered over a fortnight with his father Matthew Kent accompanying him.

The expedition commenced on August 19 and is scheduled to conclude on September 4.

The challenge serves as a tribute to Ellis’s grandmother, Barbara Sunderland, who passed away from pancreatic cancer three years prior.

The pair are seeking to collect £50,000 for Cancer Research UK through their fundraising campaign.

During the journey, Virgin Balloon Flights provided the father and son with an unexpected experience.

On August 23, the company treated them to a hot air balloon flight over Henley-on-Thames, granting them a bird’s-eye perspective of a section of their walking route.

The aerial excursion proved particularly meaningful as the boy had long dreamed of such an adventure.

The gesture formed part of the broader kindness the walkers have received from people and organisations throughout their trek.

Virgin Balloon Flights additionally contributed £100 to the fundraising initiative.

Matthew Kent explained that the balloon ride offered his son encouragement during what represents a substantial physical and mental undertaking for someone of such a young age.

He noted that witnessing the Thames from above at sunrise provided the pair with a unique vantage point, allowing them to observe the ground already covered while gaining perspective on the distance remaining ahead.

The pilot, Jonathan, received particular praise for his manner with Ellis, while the broader Virgin Balloon Flights team were commended for their professionalism and warmth throughout the experience.

Amy Jackson, marketing manager at Virgin Balloon Flights, expressed admiration for the undertaking.

She indicated that the company was pleased to offer the pair an alternative viewpoint of their expedition.

Jackson observed that completing 185 miles within two weeks constitutes a significant accomplishment regardless of age, but noted that Ellis’s youth and his motivation to raise funds in commemoration of his grandmother rendered the achievement especially noteworthy.