Young friends Freddie, Charlotte and Tom have raised an incredible £14,811.83  for Candlelighters in an epic challenge event held over the Christmas period.

After their friend Elliott was diagnosed with an incurable tumour in September 2014, the trio were quick to get together and find a way to raise some money for Candlelighters.

Before Elliott’s initial diagnoses he was a fantastic swimmer which is what led Elliott to think of and settle on their challenge. Over the Christmas break, Freddie, Charlotte and Tom swam 1,344 lengths of the pool at Energise Leisure Centre in York, each completing an average of 2.3 miles per day.

Elliott said it was “an awesome achievement” for the three of them and Elliott’s mum added, “We are overwhelmed by the generosity of people and the money raised will certainly have a positive impact on many families going through the rigours of cancer treatment for a child or teen in the region. Elliott and Freddie have been friends all their lives and Freddie’s idea for the charity swim is such a mature and generous way of channelling his emotions through this difficult time.”

Candlelighters are amazed by the amount that has been raised and would like to say a massive thank you to Freddie, Charlotte and Tom. Your dedication and effort is incredible and you should be very proud of yourselves.