A young boy's selfless act has left people in tears as his "kindness will never be forgotten."
Rhys Taylor, 11, was hoping to treat himself to new football boots after saving up his money. But when he bought a t-shirt instead, he had some money left over.
Mum Katie Doughty said her young son was "in a loving mood" as he bought her an iced coffee from his local Asda store in Wirral on May 31. But unknown to Katie, Rhys went the extra mile and paid for someone else's shopping as well, as he said he wanted to "help the world".
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Katie told the ECHO: "He thought he was going to get in trouble so told me the man was struggling to pay for his shopping. He didn't want to tell me at first in case I said he was giving money away but when I found out I told him it was such a lovely thing to do.
"He bought a sausage roll for a homeless guy as well and came home with a surprise for me, he'd printed off a picture of me and him. I try to teach him that the world is materialistic but people won't remember the things you buy, they remember how you make them feel.
"I said it doesn't have to be money, the only thing we have to give is our time, speaking to people asking how they are and he's gone and done something himself. I teach him that happiness is a by-product of living and to be kind and loving but not to be kind to look good."
And Rhys' amazing gesture had not gone unnoticed, as a post on Facebook soon racked up hundreds of comments and likes after one shopper overhead what had happened.
Katie added: "My sister in law asked me if it was Rhys, I was aware it would come out as Rhys told me but he was buzzing. He knows that what you put into the world comes back tenfold and it was national smile day yesterday as well.
"I told him that little decision he made had a profound impact, he was so happy. I'm super proud of him and he said he felt better doing that than he had buying his t-shirt."
The anonymous poster on the Crimewatch Wirral Facebook Post praised Rhys' actions as they wrote: "He was only buying one item. But he insisted on paying for the gentleman's shopping, who was behind him, in the queue. When the man asked the lad why, the lad replied "I want to help the world". He then paid for the man's shopping."
The poster went on to say: "To Rhys Taylor's parent/parents, what a kind and compassionate young man you have raised. He not only helped someone out, but he also touched everyone's heart. All of us had tears in our eyes it was such a selfless and thoughtful gesture.
"To Rhys Taylor, you are a legend who put our faith back into humanity, your kindness will never be forgotten. We hear so much about young people causing trouble but Rhys is living proof we also have a lot of amazing young people, who can teach us adults how to be kind. How to put another person before ourselves.
"I believe Rhys Taylor deserves credit, and our utmost respect and admiration. He is one of a kind, and I will never forget his kindness. Life is so tough at the moment but young people like Rhys make the world a better place."
Many people were quick to comment on the lovely gesture as one person wrote: "What a lovely kind thoughtful young man, you’ve done your mum and dad proud that will have made that man’s day well done." Another added: "Well done Rhys and what a very proud mummy you must be, you have raised a beautiful son with a heart of gold.
"I wish your young man all the happiness, luck, love and very best wishes as he grows into a fine gentleman. Job well done Katie Doughty this is amazing news."
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