Luton brother and sister raise money for victims of Beirut explosion

On July 9, a huge blast in the Lebanese capital killed at least 135 people and flattened nearby buildings, with shockwaves spread for 250 miles around.

In Farley Hill, eight-year-old Rayaan and his sister Inayah, four, are preparing to do a five-mile charity bike ride in order to raise money for victims of the blast.

The children will cycle with their cousins Sayf, 10, and Maya, seven, on a round trip from Watford to Garston on Saturday, September 5.

All monies will be donated to The Zahra Trust in aid of the Beirut disaster.

Rayaan and Inayah’s mum, Moina Shah, said: “We were watching the news and I was explaining to the children what was happening in Beirut.

“Many people there are now homeless and were already suffering with Covid-19.

“It was something they were really interested in and I suggested, ‘Why don’t we help them, maybe we can raise money through a bike ride?’

“They enjoy their cycling, and so straight away they wanted to do it!

“I make donations to the Zahra Trust anyway, as I know that it’s a good and reliable charity.”

The children have already managed to raise an impressive £900 of their £1,000 target, with four days to go.

Mum Moina added: “They are really excited about it and it’s for a good cause.

“For Rayaan, it’s a breeze as he is used to long bike rides on a daily basis.

“I was worried it might be a bit much for Inayah but she’s determined to do it and is practising very hard!

“We’ve calculated the mileage and we’ll have a break at two-and-a-half miles and see how we’re doing.”

The explosion in Beirut generated seismic waves the equivalent of a large earthquake, and has left an estimated 300,000 survivors homeless and desperately in need of basic provisions.

Health authorities in Lebanon are said to be overwhelmed, while a two-week state of emergency has been declared.

To donate to the fundraiser, visit https://uk.gofundme.com/f/beirut-bleeds-raising-money-for-lebanon.