A SCHOOLGIRL is swimming the length of the English Channel for charity.

But rather than battle the busy shipping lanes of the Anglo-French crossing, 10-year-old Claudia Walker from Kelsall is taking on the challenge in her local swimming pool.

The Kelsall Primary pupil is attempting to complete the 22 miles in 12 weeks as part of the Aspire Swim Challenge, in support of people with spinal injuries.

She has already completed 19.3 miles and is set achieve her target well before the December 7 deadline – despite breaking her wrist during the first week.

Claudia, who is hoping to become a lifeguard in the near future, is hoping to raise more than £1,000 for Aspire.

Proud grandmother Susan said: “The decision to do this was her’s alone. Too many young people today either don’t care or, when they do care, don’t get the recognition they deserve.

“She does care and she is to be applauded.”

Claudia, who recently won a gold medal at a local event, is clocking up the miles most days after school at Winsford swimming baths.

For more information on what Claudia has taken on, visit www.aspire.org.uk/channelswim