A Worcester schoolboy will show his dedication to hospice care by taking on a sponsored swim on Monday 1 May.

Jay Ingram, aged 9 and from Perdiswell, is already a seasoned fundraiser, having 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.

Jay, who attends Perdiswell Primary School, is hoping to beat his 2016 target and raise £1000 this year.

The sponsored swim will take 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.

Jay will be supported on the day by his family and friends along with his mum, Sabrina Ingram, who will be swimming alongside him.

Sabrina said : “Jay used to find swimming a real trial so words cannot explain how proud we are of him with this latest challenge; he is an absolute star and an inspiration to us all.  His fundraising initiatives have become important annual events for us as a family and we are all delighted to support the hospice in any way we can.”

Jay said : “I really like being able to support St Richard’s Hospice as they really looked after Auntie Mel.  Every length I swim is for Auntie Mel and it helps me remember her.  I hope St Richard’s can use my fundraising towards helping other people and their families.”

Ria Simons, Community Fundraiser at St Richard’s Hospice, said : “The individual efforts of supporters like Jay are really inspirational.  His story is even more poignant as he is so young and dedicated.  We would like to thank Jay and his family for their ongoing support.  Good luck Jay!”