A Worcester schoolboy kept his head above water in a recent challenge for a local charity.
Jay Ingram, aged 9 and from Perdiswell, undertook a sponsored swim, raising more than £1000 for St Richard’s Hospice.
The Perdiswell Primary School pupil took on the challenge – supported by more than 20 family and friends – on Monday 1 May, swimming 1 mile – or 64 lengths – in 1 hour and 14 minutes.
A seasoned fundraiser, Jay previously raised £500 for a sponsored silence in 2015 and £900 for a sponsored walk last year, all in aid of St Richard’s Hospice.
Jay’s support of the hospice came about following the care his aunt, Mel Baker received before her death in 2014.
The sponsored swim took place at Perdiswell Leisure Centre; prior to the opening of the new centre, Jay found swimming a struggle and decided he wanted to challenge himself as well as raise funds for a charity very close to his heart. During training he swam up to 50 lengths a week.
Jay’s mum, Sabrina Ingram, swam alongside him on the day.
Sabrina said : “Words can’t express how proud we are of Jay. He is such a caring and kindhearted boy. He pushed himself the whole way and has really gone the extra mile! We are also overwhelmed with the support Jay has received. This is our way of thanking St Richard’s for the care Mel received.”
Jay said : “I am really proud of my swim and the time I did it in. It was a challenge and I really had to push myself from length 50, but with my Mummy pushing along the way and cheers from family and friends, I did it! Thank you to everyone who supported me, both with donations and cheering me on the day. I look forward to thinking about my challenge next year!”
Jodi Brandwood, Fundraiser at St Richard’s Hospice, said : “We are absolutely thrilled with the amazing effort from Jay on his sponsored swim! He is a very special young boy and we would like to thank everyone who has sponsored him, which, in turn, helps us care for others at the end of their lives. We look forward to supporting him in future initiatives. Well done Jay!”