Young Swimming Fundraiser
1684. Hayden Hudson
Hayden Hudson, aged 11, from Derbyshire, has raised thousands of pounds through sponsored swims for various children’s charities and a local food bank in the past three years.
Hayden, who is diagnosed with ADHD and learning difficulties, has had a passion for swimming ever since he started taking lessons at the age of three. When he turned seven, he wanted to start using his love of swimming to help his wider community, completing a sponsored swim for ‘Macmillan Cancer Support’ in October 2018, in aid of a family friend who had recently ben diagnosed with cancer. Since then, he has continued to undertake regular sponsored swims, with his charitable fundraising currently standing at more than £4,000.
In a personal letter to Hayden, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Congratulations on the success of your fantastic sponsored swims, fundraising for children’s charities.
“It is wonderful to hear how you have turned your passion for swimming into a way to help others. You are an inspiration!”
Reacting to the Prime Minister’s award, Hayden said:
“I can’t believe Boris Johnson knows what I do to help other people. I love swimming and helping others so I just put them together. I would like to thank you all.”