A WIDNES schoolboy who has difficulty walking has conquered his latest goal to swim the equivalent of the English Channel.

Aidan Jackson, 13, finished his 21 mile challenge on Saturday in Runcorn to rapturous applause and was congratulated by the Mayor of Halton, Cllr Ellen Cargill.

The Ormiston Chadwick Academy pupil has been swimming at Beechwood Community Centre twice a week since last October.

His incredible feat to do 2,360 lengths has raised more than £1,500 for the Olivia Alice Foundation, a charity which helps disabled children and their families.

It was completed in memory of his friend, 15-year-old Olivia Walker, from Halewood, who had complex disabilities and died a year ago.

Aidan started supporting her charity in 2014, selling keyrings and tackling various challenges including a sponsored walk.

So far, he has raised £6,150.

Aidan’s mum, Caroline, 44, of Francis Close, Ditton, said: “Our families met several years ago.

“Olivia didn’t speak but sparked off a little friendship with Aidan.

“He wanted to do this challenge for her.”

Olivia’s parents Kim and Barry presented him with a trophy and gifts at a surprise celebration.

Aidan has Asperger’s and has had casts and splints on both legs after being diagnosed with idiopathic toe walking.

He now wears special insoles and has to use a wheelchair for longer distances.

“I don’t find physical challenges easy,” he said.

“I get really sore legs as I have tight tendons and hamstrings.

“I know that any pain I have is nothing to what the children who receive help from Olivia’s foundation face every minute of every day.”

His dad, Steve, 44, and sisters Kayleigh, 25, Toni, 23, and Nikita, 19, have nothing but praise for his efforts.

Caroline added: “He is a lively boy, bright and bubbly.

“This has been a difficult challenge. He has had days when he cried in the pool because he was hurting but he wanted to carry on.

“I am bursting with pride. “

To support Aidan visit gofundme.com/ej5n55mg.