THE sponsorship money is rolling in for a ten-year-old girl who swam a breathtaking 77km to raise money for cancer sufferers.

Molly Wade took just under three months to complete the 3,080 lengths of Richmond Pool, swimming up to 2km four times a week.

All sponsorship money raised will go to Macmillan Cancer Support.

The youngster, who attends St Mary's Primary School, in Richmond, was inspired to begin the challenge by family friend Murray Spark.

Mr Spark set off in April to cycle and climb the highest peaks of North, Central and South America.

The 25,000km route will take in Mount McKinley in Alaska, Tajamulco in Mexico and Aconcagua in Chile.

Mr Spark is completing the epic journey in aid of the Macmillan nurses after losing both his parents to cancer.

The adventurer is aiming to raise a minimum of £77,006.

The figure represents a pound for each foot of ascent and every mile cycled during the journey.

Molly decided she would attempt to swim 77,006 metres to match the achievement.

She also hopes to raise £770. Her total already stands at more than £300.

Her mother, Mandy Wade, from the Zetland estate, Richmond, said: "When Murray set off she played around with the figures and came up with this challenge on her own.

"She had already done a sponsored swim and knew she could raise money that way.

"She wasn't expecting the response she's got - she has been quite overwhelmed by it."

Molly completed the challenge using a variety of strokes.

Mrs Wade said her daughter began taking a keen interest in swimming after watching Richmond Olympic swimmer Joanne Jackson on television.

"She says she's going to swim in the Olympics one day," Mrs Wade said.

"She's got her whole life mapped out. She's a good swimmer and I think she could go far."

To sponsor Molly, call Mrs Wade on 01748-825563.

Sponsorship can also be left at the Georgian Hair Salon, in Richmond Road, Catterick Garrison, and Choices video store in Richmond Market Place.