Combe Martin boy spreading kindness through acts of goodwill

An 11-year-old boy from Combe Martin is proving that kindness knows no age limits.

Levi Lisle-Young has been making waves in his community with his passionate fundraising efforts, driven by a desire to help others and spread smiles wherever he goes.

Levi started giving back at just seven-years-old when he sold his toys through auction to raise money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

Today, he still donates all his unwanted things through the Don’t Just Bin It auctions to help give someone else something new at a low cost, whilst also helping support charity. 

Since then, he has embarked on numerous initiatives, including kayaking a mile, all in the name of charity.

"I just like to bring a smile, to be honest. It's good to be the difference and be kind," Levi said, reflecting on his motivations. 

His compassionate nature extends beyond fundraising, as he recounted a heartwarming tale of providing a fellow schoolmate with a football top when he couldn't afford one.

"He was so happy," Levi added.

At the age of eight, nearly nine, Levi embarked on a mission to raise funds for the RNLI by participating in the Mayday Mile. 

Determined to kayak a mile solo, Levi's plans were adjusted when safety concerns arose. Thanks to the generosity of Surf Side Kayak Shop in Combe Martin, Levi was provided with a kayak, allowing his father to accompany him. 

However, their excursion took a dangerous turn when rough seas caused Levi's kayak to overturn. 

In a moment of peril, Levi remembered his mother's advice and attempted to signal for help with his whistle. 

Fortunately, a kind-hearted individual from the OSKC Watersports Shop, also in the village, came to their aid, rescuing Levi and his father. 

Undeterred by the ordeal, Levi persevered and completed his mile-long journey, ultimately raising an impressive £608 in May 2021, just shy of his ninth birthday.

However, Levi's fundraising took a poignant turn as he shared memories of volunteers like Ilfracombe lifeboat coxswain Andrew Bengey, who passed away last year, but left a lasting impact on Levi's life.

"He helped 550 people while working at the RNLI. How amazing," Levi remarked.

Levi has channelled his energy into performing 550 good deeds so far in memory of Andrew and raising more than £2,000 for the RNLI. 

Levi's acts of kindness, from cleaning up dog mess pet owners had left on the streets to feeding the homeless, show how one person can make a difference through determination.

Living just a stone's throw away from the sea, Levi feels a deep connection to the RNLI's lifesaving mission. 

"I love the sea and have been lucky to never need their (RNLI) help, but I do see them every year helping others," Levi shared.

Looking ahead, Levi is gearing up for more acts of kindness, including reconnecting with a homeless man named Ian, whom he met during his fundraising endeavours. 

"We should always be kind because we don't know what might happen in life," Levi remarked.