FUNDRAISERS undertook a swimathon challenge in memory of a Blackburn marine.

Emily Fairbrother, the sister of 24- year-old David Fairbrother who was killed in action last year in Afghanistan, organised the sponsored swim in his memory.

Emily asked friends, family, and supporters, to swim a mile each, with the aim of hitting 42 miles, as David was in 42 Commando.

The serviceman was known for his love of extreme sports, and his mum Julie, sisters Ruth and Emily, friends and family, pledged, following his death, to continue his legacy in aid of the Royal Marines’ Charitable Trust Fund.

So far this year, his supporters have undertaken a memorial charity skydive, and a gruelling winter ‘Tough Guy’ obstacle run in the mud.

At the latest sponsored swim, held yesterday at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, David’s old swimming club Pioneer 79 also joined in to support the Fairbrother family.

Emily said: “All the support is so, so welcome, and donations go to a fantastic cause, giving us all the motivation to continue these efforts and drive to raise money for the Marines’ Trust. We would like to thank everyone very much for their continued support.”

Since launching a JustGiving page earlier this year, Emily and her family have raised around £14,000 for The Royal Marines’ Charitable Trust Fund. It contains updates of upcoming events at www.justgiving. com/David-Fairbrother