An eight-year-old boy has raised more than £2,500 as he bids to swim 1km across a lake.

Riendra Raja is taking part in open swim challenges in the lake at Merchant Taylor’s School in aid of the Rennie Grove charity.

Riendra, who lives in Pinner, was cheered on and supported by his father Akash after he swam 750 metres in May.

The youngster is hoping to go even further when he enters the Moor Park lake again on July 16.

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Riendra, who likes playing sports including rugby and cricket and climbed Ben Nevis in Scotland last year, said: “I’ve never been open swimming before but I’m a good poll swimmer. I found it quite challenging but I think I can do even longer. My next target is 1km.”

Dad Akash said: “I’m super proud of Rien on the basis he set out to achieve something and he’s doing it, all with a smile on his face.”

Riendra, who goes to St John's school in Northwood, has so far raised £2,626 via his Just Giving page in aid of Rennie Grove, which offers support to patients with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.