Young girl swims 'Channel' for charity (From Watford Observer)

Young girl swims 'Channel' for charity

12:00pm Monday 15th December 2008

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A nine-year-old Abbots Langley girl swam the equivalent of the English Channel to raise money for charity.

Holly Livingstone, of Mallard Road, was among the youngest swimmers in the country taking part in the event in which she completed 22miles in 12 weeks, for a spinal cord injury charity.

The ambitious Abbots Langley Primary School pupil joined thousands in the epic Aspire Channel Swim challenge, in which she completed a staggering 1,416 lengths at her local Bushey Grove pool.

Holly said: "My dad was telling me a story one day about my uncle who wanted to swim the Channel. I decided I wanted to do the same. I love swimming so mum looked on the internet to see if there was anything I could do which was similiar.

“I’m so happy that I’ve completed the challenge. I was a bit nervous and it was hard work but I knew I could see it through to the end. It was an enjoyable way for me to raise money for charity."

Holly, who was inspired by Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington, swam around 100 lengths three to four times a week to reach the target.

The plucky youngster, who hopes one day to actually swim across the Channel, was sponsored by family and friends and raised £50 for the charity.

Aspire works with sufferers of spinal injury all over the UK, and helps to promote independent living for people living with reduced mobility.

Money raised will go towards helping people with spinal cord injuries enjoy more choice, opportunity and independence.

Parents Ross and Tracey said they could not be prouder.

Mum Tracey said: “Swimming seems to run in the family. The decision to do this was her’s alone. Holly was very determined and we did what we could to help her fulfil her goal.

"She’s an excellent swimmer and her achievement is quite remarkable.”

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