Marston Green mum Natalie Mayo and her 10-year-old son Bradley have set themselves a five mile swimming challenge in the name of John Taylor Hospice. Between them, the dedicated duo are planning to swim five miles in five days in North Solihull Sports Centre’s swimming pool. 

“Neither of us have ever swam quite that far before,” said Natalie, aged 41. “Bradley has his bronze swimming badge, but I think I lost mine years ago.”

Natalie and Bradley are planning to swim a mile a day between them, starting on Monday 29 June.  They will be raising funds for Birmingham’s John Taylor Hospice, which provides expert palliative care and practical support for people across the West Midlands.

“Swimming is a fun way to keep active and we’ve always loved taking trips to the pool as a family. And even if you’re not physically fit, I’ve found it to be much more forgiving than running or cycling.”

Natalie, who works at John Taylor Hospice, praised her son for his generosity and willingness to help others.

“The idea was all Bradley’s. End of life care is a cause that is close to his heart. So he’s taking a break from video games and football in order to complete this challenge and raise funds for the hospice.”

Bradley was inspired to raise funds after witnessing first-hand the devastating impact cancer can have on families.

He said: “My friend’s mum has cancer and it’s really sad because they said she won’t get better. I wanted to do something to help and I know that John Taylor Hospice can support people in that way. So I thought I’d try and raise some money for them, to help them.

“I’ve told my friends that I’m going to be swimming a long way and they’re excited to see how I get on I think.”

After the challenge, Bradley is looking forward to getting back on the football pitch with his friends at Birmingham City Football Academy. 

“Swimming is my second best hobby,” he explained. “I like playing football more.”

Marston Green Juniors, where Bradley is just finishing Year 5, have also committed to donating some of the money raised at their leavers’ assembly as sponsorship for his challenge. 

To sponsor Natalie and Bradley, visit www.justgiving.com/bradnat-mayo and for fundraising ideas visit www.johntaylorhospice.org.uk.