A SIX-YEAR-OLD boy will dive head-first into the world of charity fundraising when he takes on a sponsored swim.

Jayden Thomson wants to raise money for fun activity packs at the paediatric waiting room at Furness General Hospital so that children can be given interactive ways to take their minds off painful treatments in A&E. 

The youngster is collecting money for the local fundraising group, ForGood, and aims to complete 20 lengths of the pool at DW Fitness in Barrow.

Jayden hasn't set a date yet for his challenge but has been given expert guidance on how to perfect his strokes from Joe Elwood, a gold medal winning swimmer at the British Universities' Nationals.

Mr Elwood, originally from Swarthmoor, travelled to Barrow for a special coaching session with Jayden, giving him confidence to take on the challenge at such a young age.

Craig Troth, Furness General Hospital receptionist and one of the founders of ForGood, said: "Jayden has taken it upon himself to raise money, in association with our ForGood fundraising group, for the paediatric waiting and play room to help distract poorly children that have come into the department to have treatment.

"Jayden has decided to try and swim 20 lengths which is a big goal, but he is currently having swimming lessons to achieve this."

ForGood is raising money for local and national charities, with a focus primarily on children's and elderly charities. The group was set up by Mr Troth and Lyndsey Pratt, a paediatric nurse at Furness General Hospital.

Jayden is aiming to reach £500 in sponsorship. Anyone who wants to donate towards his swim fund can click HERE .

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