Lossiemouth youngsters raising money for RAF charity with fundraising swim

TWO youngsters from Lossiemouth are set to raise money for an Armed Forces charity with a fundraising swimming challenge.

Archie (11) and George Melville (9) will swim 4627 metres – the length of two runways at RAF Lossie – across the next six weeks to raise cash for the SSAFA RAF Lossiemouth In-Service Committee.

The pair, who attend Hythehill Primary School, started the challenge on April 5 at Lossiemouth Sports and Community Centre swimming pool, swimming a total of 60 lengths each.

They are set to swim twice a week for at least an hour in order to finish the challenge within their six-week window, with the pool giving them permission to undertake their challenge during the quieter adult sessions.

Anne-Marie Ballantyne, fundraising officer for the SSAFA at RAF Lossie, said: "We are very grateful to and proud of Archie and George for choosing us for their first ever charity challenge.

"Fundraising is a major part to raising awareness for what we do as a charity. Awareness and funds not only support serving personnel and their families but also veterans in our community too.

"All the money that is raised stays here in Moray. Good luck boys, we know you can do it!"

The SSAFA, also known as the Armed Forces charity, has been providing lifelong support to members of the forces and their families since 1885.

Last year volunteers and employees helped more than 79,500 people in need, from Second World War veterans to young men and women who have served in more recent conflicts, and their families.

To donate to the duo's challenge, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ssafa-isc-raf-lossiemouth-archie-george-lossierunwayswim.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.