Garstang girl's big swim for nanna

The seven-year-old swimmer is taking part in her biggest challenge yet after losing her great-nan to cancer.

Caitlin Hoyle, from Garstang, lost her nan Freda Horabin to bowel cancer last May and ever since she has been determined to help out others.

Mum Lyndsey Mawson is proud of her daughter who is taking part in a half-mile swim this weekend to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

Lyndsey said: “Caitlin has never experienced grief or loss before so it hit her quite hard when she lost her nanna.

“Freda was a big part of the family, Caitlin is quite emotional, she has a big picture of Freda in her room and she is really aware now of cancer and wants to become a nurse when she grows up to look after people.”

Caitlin described her nan as “loving, kind, caring and someone who gave really nice cuddles.”

Freda was 87-years-old when she lost her cancer battle on May 2.

Caitlin has been training for her big swim since December at Acresfield Health Club and Spa in Garstang, where she also has swimming lessons.

Lyndsey said: “I was quite shocked and impressed that someone so young wants to do something like this.

“She wanted to raise £30, which just goes to show how innocent children are over the concept of money.

“She trains as much as she can, she loves swimming, she goes religiously with her grandad three to four times a week.

“As her mum I couldn’t be prouder and I have no doubt that she will continue to fundraise. This is just the start of her journey.”

Caitlin will be swimming alongside her auntie Lydia on Saturday January 30 for her big swim at 11am.

She will undergo approximately 54 lengths and has so far raised more than £600.

You can text CHOY 47 with the amount you wish to sponsor to 70070 or go on the just giving page and look for Caitlin’s sponsored swim at https://www.justgiving.com/lyndsey-mawson.