AN energetic mum from Droitwich Spa took the plunge for a charity very close to her heart.

Debi Wainwright completed an exhausting swimathon at Droitwich Sports and Leisure Centre, in Briar Mill, last Saturday.

Despite not knowing how to swim last year, she managed to complete 30 lengths of the pool and raised more than £1,000 for sick children.

The fundraiser was thought up to raise cash for Alistair's Appeal, which was set up in memory of Debi's son who died from a brain tumour at the age of six. It also marked what would have been Alistair's tenth birthday.

So far the charity has raised a whopping £25,000 for children suffering from cancer.

Debi trained for the event with the help of former professional swimmer Karen O'Toole, from Martley, near Worcester, who offered her help following a story in the Advertiser.

Karen, along with all Debi's friends and family, turned out to support her at the weekend.

"It was absolutely knackering," said Debi, after the charity swim.

All money raised will go towards research carried out at Birmingham University and Birmingham Children's Hospital. For further details on Alistair's Appeal call 01905 796275.