A BRAVE county youngster with a rare condition that means he can not walk or bend his elbows is to do a sponsored swim to raise funds for charity.

Selfless Jago Baker of Dunley, near Stourport-on-Severn, was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, a condition impairing joint mobility.

The nine-year-old relies on his electric wheelchair to move around.

Despite his condition he has found ways of increasing his mobility and has greater movement in water.

Now he has decided to do a sponsored swim of 20 lengths to raise funds for The Arthrogryposis Group (TAG), a support group for people with the condition, and Whizz-Kids, which provides wheelchairs to youngsters like Jago.

His dad Rick Baker, of Upton-upon-Severn, described Jago as a confident swimmer.

"He's fantastic and I'm really proud of him," he said.

"Once he's in the water he's off.

"It makes him feel really good and it's the only time he gets out of breath so it's a good cardiovascular work out.

"By doing a sponsored swim it will give him motivation and make him feel fantastic.

"It would really mean a lot to feel people are on his side helping him do positive things for others."

Mr Baker said his son was very determined, independent and positive about his condition.

"He has always had it and has become used to it," said the 42-year-old.

"He is very enthusiastic, he knows what he wants to do and will always have a go at doing it."

"He has a great sense of humour and often comes up with little gems."

The youngster lives with his mother Sharon Baker who is the national contact for TAG, and his elder sister Brysa.

He attends St Clements CE Primary in St John's where "he enjoys English and generally being noisy," according to his dad.

He will swim at Livingwell Health Club near Tewkesbury on Saturday, June 19.

Anyone wishing to sponsor him can contact Mr Baker on 07973 257244.

Anyone wishing to contact TAG can visit the website on www.tagonline.org.uk, e-mail taguk@aol.com or call 01299 878465.