A 10-year-old girl from Barkway has swum the distance of a half marathon over seven months at Royston Leisure Centre to raise £650 for her friend who has an inoperable brain tumour.

Royston Crow: Darcie Crick swam a half marathon to raise money for her friend Freddie Tully, who has an inoperable brain tumour. Picture: Jan BrownDarcie Crick swam a half marathon to raise money for her friend Freddie Tully, who has an inoperable brain tumour. Picture: Jan Brown (Image: Jan Brown)

Darcie Crick, who has autism and anxiety, completed the swim for Freddie Tully, also 7, who she formed an instant bond with after meeting a year ago.

Darcie’s mum Laura said: “It’s been a real challenge for Darcie to complete this, there have been times over the past few months where she couldn’t even face getting in the pool due to the challenges she faces herself, however she has persevered and we are incredibly proud of her.”

Freddie’s mum Lynette and his brothers Ronnie and Bobby joined Darcie pool side for the final fourty lengths, presenting her with presents for her achievement.

Laura added: “Royston Leisure Centre have been an incredible support, her teachers at Sandon JMI work tirelessly to adapt lessons to suit Darcie’s needs and encourage Darcie to reach her full potential.

Royston Crow: Darcie Crick swam a half marathon to raise money for her friend Freddie Tully, who has an inoperable brain tumour. Picture: Jan BrownDarcie Crick swam a half marathon to raise money for her friend Freddie Tully, who has an inoperable brain tumour. Picture: Jan Brown (Image: Jan Brown)

“All the staff have been so encouraging through this challenge and we cannot thank them enough.”

To add to Freddie Tully’s fund go to http://www.justgiving.com/Freddie-tully6