A 12-YEAR-OLD boy with Type 1 Diabetes is ready to take on the biggest challenge of his life when he and his mum swim the equivalent of the English Channel for charity.

Jack and Claire Baker, of Cresswell Drive, Hilperton, will be taking on the 22-mile-long challenge at the Trowbridge Sports Centre pool in aid of Diabetes UK between February 22-May 22.

The Lavington School pupil, who wears an insulin pump and tests his sugar levels many times each day, wants to raise awareness of the issue and show people that the condition does not hinder him in life.

“Although I have done a lot of swimming before, this will be the biggest challenge I have ever done,” said Jack, who was diagnosed just before he turned two.

“I want to swim three to four times a week and hopefully do 100 lengths each time.

“Hopefully I can raise awareness about this issue and raise money for a good cause. Having diabetes won’t stop me doing this.

“I am nervous but also really excited to do this.”

An insulin pump is a small battery-operated device that can be worn on a belt or put in a pocket and it’s connected to a narrow plastic tube that’s inserted just under the skin and taped in place.

Mrs Baker completed this challenge, known as Swim 22, three years ago and is looking forward to swimming with her son.

“We are both raring to go for this big swim. We can do this together over the next few months,” she said.

“I know how much hard work goes into finishing this but Jack is a strong swimmer. We will have watches on us showing how far we’ve swum. He used to swim at more regularly at the pool for the swimming club but when he went to secondary school he was too busy.

“Having diabetes does not stop him doing things, he just has to be prepared and organised.”

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Claire-Jack-Baker