Mexborough swimmer Tiegan making a splash for cousin's charity trip to Africa

Tiegan Parnham, 14, from Mexborough, is hoping to swim two miles - a total of 128 lengths - on March 12 at Dearne Valley Leisure Centre in Mexborough.

Money raised will help to fund her cousin Bradley Christian’s trip to Swaziland to teach English to children in schools.

Tiegan said: “We were all so proud of Bradley when he was chosen by Sheffield Hallam University with only 10 places available and 70 applicants.

“We are really excited that Bradley application was successful to take part in this trip to Africa.

“The trip is self-funded so all of the family is thinking of different ways to help him raise the money needed.”

She added: “I’ve always been a keen swimmer so this is the perfect thing for me to do.

“I hope to raise as much money as possible towards the cost of £2300.”

Bradley, a former employee of Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust, which manages leisure facilities in the town, will be taking part in the volunteer project which is coordinated by the Vesabroad Humanitarian Project.

Alongside delivering English lessons, Bradley will also be tasked with teaching basic sanitation hygiene and nutrition through games and activities.

He will also be helping with the renovation and construction of run down facilities in villages across the region.

Bradley is also tasked with completing animal conservation work.

Bradley described the trip as a unique opportunity to help others which he simply had to do.

He added: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of a project that will really make a difference. I’m so proud that my family are supporting me with fundraising and wish Tiegan well for her sponsored swim.

“We leave on July 22 and will be raising as much money as possible before that date.”

Anyone who would like to support Tiegan and Bradley can visit their online fundraising page at www.gofundme.com/xr84c864. 11 people have so far donated just over £400.