A BARRY schoolboy who began creating loom band bracelets to raise money for the charity that helped his dad has smashed his fundraising target.

Entrepreneurial Jack Rees-Davies, nine, has so far brought in £1030 for the Marie Curie hospice, in Penarth, by teaming up with his friend Dan Quigley, 10, Jake Quigley, seven, and Brooke Leigh Seer, eight, to sell their creations to family, friends, and neighbours.

Jack’s dad, 47-year-old Martin Rees-Davies spent time at the hospice suffering from cancer and died in April, this year and the youngsters, supporting Jack’s idea, started production – having first learned by watching the girls.

Savvy Palmerston primary pupil, Jack this week took the opportunity to boost his charity donation by fleecing Vale MP Alun Cairns of £12 by accepting his offer to make a Marie Curie/Barry Town United blue and yellow bracelet for him and a UK, Wales and Marie Curie bracelets for Prime Minister David Cameron.

Jack, Dan and Jack’s mum Rebecca Murliss have now been invited to take a behind the scenes House of Commons tour, in London, this autumn.

The team are still producing the bands and offering them in different styles and colours – to order – for individuals or groups, sporting team supporters, or special occasions.

Mum Rebecca, 33, said: “The target started at £100 and then it became £500 and then it became £1000. People have been so generous. It’s been amazing.”

Jack said: “I’m really happy.”

Vale MP Alun said: “I’m hugely impressed Jack has been channelling his energy in a way that delivers a positive outcome. Jack’s hard work and effort is for a charity close to my heart.

“I can’t believe that he’s achieved so much in such a short time out of a most fascinating hobby. Watching him create a bracelet is mind boggling. I have never seen fingers move so quickly. Teams could donate by buying some. I’m looking forward to presenting the Prime Minister with his and wearing one myself.”

To help Jack, Dan, Jake and Brooke raise more funds for Marie Curie, you can order a loom band bracelet, costing £2 for adults, £1.50 for children, by emailing jrdloomies2014@gmail.com and an adult will relay your order.