A BASINGSTOKE schoolboy has been named one of the nation’s most ‘Remarkable Roberts’ as part of a campaign run by Roberts Bakery.

Robert Clarke, seven, from Basingstoke was nominated by his mum, Rebecca, for his resilience with coping with his visual impairment.

Rebecca said: “He’s like every other little boy and just loves to do what little boys do.

“Robert’s dad is blind, and we hoped that the condition wouldn’t be hereditary, but it is. Robert’s sight is expected to deteriorate over time, which he’s aware of, but in the meantime, he’s carrying on doing everything he loves and is never one to shy away from a new challenge or hobby.”

Roberts Bakery launched the campaign to find the UK’s most ‘Remarkable Roberts’ earlier this year, as it was revealed the name was declining in popularity. Despite there being more than 730,000 Roberts in the UK today, only 511 were born last year – the second lowest number since 1926.

When asked what made Robert, who is in Year three at Marnel Junior School in Popley, most remarkable, Rebecca said: “He’s always so ready to give anything and everything a go. In fact, it’s usually me who watches on nervously whilst he takes everything in his stride with a smile on his face.”

Robert is a little brother to sister Jasmine, nine. He has “a heart of gold” and loves to raise money for charity.

Last year he took part in two 5k fundraising walks for Guide Dogs UK and Hampshire-based Simon Says child bereavement charity.

He also attends street dance and karate lessons, has braved an indoor skydive, and even recently scaled a 16-metre climbing wall with his dad, Matt.

He’d planned to do more charity fundraising this year but unfortunately, arrangements have been postponed due to the pandemic. Rebecca says he will be back to it as soon as restrictions allow.

She added: “Robert has a cheeky grin and a lust for fun - he rarely lets his conditions get him down. He’s a truly remarkable little boy and everyone who knows him would certainly agree.”