Niamh’s big swim raises £2,000 and counting for North Devon Hospice

A young fundraiser from Knowle has swam 72 lengths this morning – more than a mile – to raise more than £2,000 for North Devon Hospice.

Niamh Mcgrail, aged just 11, was inspired to complete the challenge at Tarka Leisure in Barnstaple after being part of a fundraising fair at her previous school, Caen Primary School, earlier this year.

Niamh, who has been in and out of the water since before she was able to walk, swam non-stop for the duration of her challenge, joined for some of the swim by her ‘bestie’ Esme plus her dad Wayne and family friend Joe. Proud mum Chloe and swimming teacher Julie encouraged her from the poolside.

Above: Niamh is delighted to have raised £2,000 so far for the hospice.

READ MORE: Niamh, 11, is taking on a big swim challenge for North Devon Hospice

Niamh said she was proud of herself for completing the challenge but could not have done it without all the people supporting her on the day.

This included hospice community fundraiser Beck Brennan, who said: “We are incredibly proud of Niamh and her amazing accomplishment, taking on such a tough swim challenge, to raise vital funds for North Devon Hospice.

“It was an absolute pleasure to be at Tarka Leisure to witness her determination as she swam for 90 minutes, completing an incredible 72 lengths - over a mile in total! At just 11-years-old, she has shown such courage and compassion.

“What’s even more special is that Niamh was inspired by her school to take on this challenge after they hosted a fundraising event to support the Hospice's Cuddle Appeal earlier in the year. Her support means the world to us and those that we care for and we couldn’t be more grateful.”

Above: Niamh finishes her swim challenge strongly with the butterfly.

Niamh is hoping to do another swim challenge for charity at some point, this time with her best friend Esme.

If you would still like to make a donation for Niamh’s big swim challenge in support of North Devon Hospice, please go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/niamhmcgrail

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