Lee Rigby's son raises five times his charity target in tribute to his dad

Lee Rigby's son has smashed his charity target in memory of his late father.

Rigby joined the Army in 2006, serving in Afghanistan just three years later before working in a recruitment post for the 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

Sadly, however, his life was cut short when he was murdered by extremists Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale outside Woolwich Barracks on 22 May, 2013.

The young dad was just 25 years old at the time, and to mark 10 years since he was killed, his son, Jack, wanted to pay tribute to him.

He was two when his father died, and set about walking a marathon throughout May in his name, with the hope of raising £1,000 for every year since his dad's murder.

Scotty's

So blown away by the 13-year-old's efforts were people that he was able to raise over £50,000 in his name.

Speaking about his incredible feat, Jack's mum, Rebecca, said she could not be prouder of him.

She told the Mirror: "Jack was so excited to see the amount grow and seeing how much each donation made him smile meant the world to me.

"He and I read all the messages of support and were thankful for them all. We honestly couldn’t believe how kind and generous people were being.

"We never dreamt that the fundraiser would do as well as it did and we are thankful to each and every person who donated and sent messages.”

Every anniversary that passes has been incredibly tough on Jack, who missed out on the chance of having his father by his side as he grows up.

And this year's was especially difficult, so he set up the fundraiser to add some positivity to the landmark.

Scotty's

"I feel proud doing the May Marathon in honour of my dad," he said. "It also helps distract me from everything. Going on a long walk is a nice break and reminds me it’s not all bad.”

His mum added: “Jack wanted to do something positive in memory of his dad. He wants to show how even though he’s grown up without Lee, he’s not forgotten his dad.”

All the money he's raised so far will go to Scotty's, a charity that supports bereaved military children that holds a special place in both their hearts.

Jack said: "It helps to know I’m not the only one in my situation. And that there’s people I can reach out and talk to, whenever I need them.”

Rebecca added: “For me, Scotty’s is about knowing Jack’s not been forgotten.

"People seem to think because he was only two and a half when Lee was killed it didn’t affect him, but Scotty’s know that isn’t the case. It gives everyone the chance to speak to others in the same position."

You can donate to Jack's fundraiser here.