A SCHOOLBOY has pledged to take part in a national charity swim challenge, despite being unable to walk or stand unaided.

Daniel Huxley, who has cerebral palsy, is to take part in the Sharron Davies 2002 National Mile Swim Challenge in aid of ChildLine.

Daniel, a pupil at Rosebank School, Ferryhill, County Durham, will be 15 on May 23 and is likely to be celebrating part of his birthday at his local swimming pool in Hartlepool.

He lives in Hutton Henry, near Wingate, and tackle the event over several evenings at his local pool in Hartlepool. He will be joined by mother Doreen, ten-year-old sister Rachel and her friend, Jessica Jackson, also ten.

Mrs Huxley said: "Daniel loves the water as it is the only time he can move independently. He may not be able to complete a full mile, but he will do his very best."

Daniel, who is hoping to swim about half-a-mile in total, is aiming to raise about £100 in sponsorship for this year's beneficiary, ChildLine.

Sharron Davies, who is backing the event, said: "I think it's great that Dan-iel has taken up the challenge, whether he finishes a mile or not. The important thing is that he is taking the time and effort to try. I wish him and the others the best of luck in completing the swim and with their fundraising."

The challenge, to swim a mile between May 12 to 26, can be completed in one day, or as long as it takes within the fortnight. To enter, call (01382) 451146.