A six-year old from Ely made a huge splash when he took on a 2.5k swim for the world’s biggest annual fund raising swim.
Lynden Long jumped into Paradise Pools for Swimathon 2017 and has so far raised more than £2,000 for Marie Curie, the UK’s leading charity for people living with a terminal illness and their families.
Lynden said: “The most I had done before Sunday was 71 lengths in one hour.
“I wanted to do the swim because Marie Curie is such a good charity to raise money for and they do a lot to help really unwell people.
“I think I was the youngest person doing it on the day but I really enjoyed doing it.”
His mum Anastasia said: “I am so delighted that Lynden conquered 2.5k for Marie Curie in just one hour and 18 minutes. The support and encouragement from everyone has been amazing.
“The atmosphere at Paradise Pools was fantastic with lots of excited individuals and team participants.
“It really was a brilliant day and Lynden has so far raised £2,050 and we hope there will be a bit more coming.”
Lynden’s swimming teacher Lucy French said: “Lynden did extremely well and we are very proud of him.
“Everyone commented on his commitment and how inspiring he was to others. He did extremely well and a very respectable time indeed.”
Swimathon took place at more than 600 pools across the UK from April 7 to 9 with a combined distance of more than 23 million metres being swam by thousands of participants.
Marie Curie is the official charity of Swimathon 2017 and is the UK’s leading charity for people with any terminal illness.
The charity helps people living with a terminal illness and their families make the most of the time they have together by delivering expert hands-on care, emotional support, research and guidance.
Last year they cared for and supported more than 50,000 people affected by terminal illness across the UK.
• Call the Marie Curie Support Line on 0800 090 2309. It’s for anyone affected by terminal illness, including family and friends.
• To support Lynden’s challenge and to donate visit Just Giving.
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