YOUNG swimmers have raised hundreds of pounds for a charity which helps children who are born with upper limb disabilities.

Children and staff from Puddle Ducks in West Yorkshire helped raise £851 for Reach - a charity which is close to their hearts.

Kitty Wilmhurst from Horsforth, was one of hundreds of children throughout West Yorkshire taking part in a week-long series of swims. The toddler was born with her lower arm missing and her family has benefitted from the support offered by Reach. She took part in a sponsored event at Yeadon where she is learning to swim.

Jenny Brown from Puddle Ducks said: "Our Charity PJ Week is a great way of teaching our students important lifesaving skills in a fun and relaxed environment, whilst raising money for a great cause.

"We were delighted to fundraise for Reach, they do fantastic work, supporting children across the UK including one of our own little swimmers, Kitty who doesn’t let an upper limb disability prevent her from learning to swim. We want to thank all of the children for joining us this week and for all of their great work in raising £851."

Kitty’s mum, Liz, said they had been supported by Reach since a 20 week scan showed that her daughter was missing her lower left arm. Liz, who is now on the charity's board of trustees, said Kitty had amazed them by adapting to everyday tasks with ease since her birth 19 months ago.

Every year, 100 babies are born with a missing upper limb or fused fingers - and many of them also have more complex associated health issues.

Reach was set up to support families and children by providing advice and a community where families can share experiences and youngsters can make friends.

Fundraising goes towards adaptation for bikes, cars and sporting equipment, an annual family weekend, an annual outdoor pursuits camp and a network of local branches of Reach.