Olympic swimmer Chris Cook is backing Cliftonville primary pupil Lily Jewell to go the distance in her fundraising swim for Cancer Research.

The Year 6 girl is planning to swim three miles at Hartsdown leisure centre in Margate on Saturday from 11am.

Mum Amanda, a teaching assistant at Cliftonville, said: “Lily has decided she wants to help get rid of cancer.

“She has thought this up and arranged it all herself. Once she gets an idea she gets quite determined to see it through.

“We are also collecting with sponsor forms around family and friends and she even has a collection pot on the local ice cream van.

“Her aunt and her next door neighbour have been battling cancer this year, which she has found very upsetting and it is this that has inspired her to start the fundraising.”

Medal-winning Chris told Lily he thinks her charity swim is a great idea and says he is with her all the way to success. After a career that saw him rise to being double Commonwealth champion, British record holder, Commonwealth record holder and Olympic finalist, Chris now uses his experience to help others to achieve their goals.

He was at the school in support of a programme called Inspire to Achieve and Celebrate.

Its aims reflect the ideals of the Olympic Games through a personal development programme to inspire young people to achieve their goals, celebrate their achievements and make a positive contribution to their school and community.

Chris is the athlete mentor for Cliftonville primary. During his first visit he addressed two assemblies and talked about his own personal journey of hard work and determination.

He met the school’s Inspire Team of pupils who chatted to him about their dreams and ambitions.

Assistant head teacher Claire Whichcord said: “It was a fantastic morning that impacted on every child at the school.

“It was inspiring and we are looking for to welcoming Chris back to see how we are progressing with the programme.

“The whole school is supporting Lily in her sponsored swim. We wish her all the best and we are sure she can achieve her goal for a very worthwhile cause.”

n To sponsor Lily, visit www.justgiving.com/LilyJewell