A nine-year-old fundraising superstar is taking part in a Swimathon next month to raise money for two vital charities.

Edie Allpress, from Builth Wells, originally set herself the target of raising £500 for Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie. The keen swimmer has already exceeded that total and is now looking to raise as much money as possible for the causes.

Edie will take part in the swimming challenge at Builth Wells Pool on May 6, and has said she is determined to push herself to swim a long distance.

The Newbridge Primary School pupil said: “I can’t believe how generous people have been, I just want to do something - I just want to help people.

“Mum said I could do the 400m challenge, but I thought I’ll try the 1.5km - you have to push yourself for fundraising, don’t you?”

Edie, who also enjoys singing and dancing, has been swimming at Builth Wells Pool since she was very little, and has thanked the “amazing” swimming teachers and coaches at the site for their kindness and support.

In lockdown Edie also volunteered with Credu, supporting young unpaid carers in their day-to-day lives.

“Lots of families are caring through having parents who have cancer, I want to support those children and families,” said Edie.

Between May 6-8, Edie will be one of over 21,000 swimmers who will head to over 300 pools across the UK to raise money for Swimathon’s charity partners, Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie.

Cancer Research UK, the worlds leading cancer charity is dedicated to saving lives through research. They don’t receive any government funding for their research, so their progress is all thanks to the support of people like Edie and her generous fundraisers.

Marie Curie provides expert care, guidance and support for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. Around 2,100 Marie Curie Nurses work day and night, in people’s homes all over the UK, providing vital hands-on care and support to people when they need it most.

“I have been balled over by everyone who has supported me from my friends, parents, teachers and Trish at Builth Wells Library who already does so much for Builth children and young people,” said Edie.

“I’d like to thank everyone, but I really want to do better.”

“When children and their parents are affected by cancer there can be some dark days, I want to help and reach out and make a difference,” she added.

If you would like to support Edie, please visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/edieallpress1648972072971