'VERY generous' sisters have raised nearly £1,000 for Haiti in a bid to help their penfriend more than 4,000 miles away.
Georgia, 13, and Libby Garner, 11, from Penrhyn Bay were devastated when they heard about the destructive earthquake which killed thousand of people in Haiti, and feared for the life of a young girl they sponsor in the heart of the region.
Their mother Michelle said: “They sponsor a girl called Djenie out of their pocket money who they write to and exchange photographs. They hadn't heard anything from her and they were really, really worried. We did then hear that she is fine and safe, but there are so many children who sadly died.”
Michelle told the Pioneer the girls had been saving up their pocket money for something special and had reached £37, but on hearing the news of the suffering in the country they asked if it could be sent to Haiti to help.
But the sisters wanted to do more so decided to take part in a sponsored run and swim.
“Initially I suggested they raise £100 - which is a lot of money - but my eldest said she wanted to raise £1,000,” said Michelle. “I said don't be silly but they proved me wrong.”
Earlier this month Georgia, who studies at St David's College and Libby, who attends Ysgol Glanwyddan, set up a JustGiving website to accept donations for their mile run and mile swim challenge.
Michelle explained: “They ran a mile first then went straight to Eirias Park to swim a mile. They belong to Colwyn Bay swimming club and did 10 lengths to warm up then 64 lengths of front crawl non-stop. They were exhausted at the end!”
The event was a huge success attracting sponsorship from friends, family, teachers and from their swimming club; as well as complete strangers who were so moved by the girls' dedication they were inspired to donate as well.
“We were so surprised by how much they raised,” said Michelle. “It kept on going up and complete strangers were donating amounts like £100. £750 will go towards the Haiti appeal and the other £250 will go directly to the village where the little girl Djenie lives.
“Both of Georgia and Libby are very generous girls - we are all very proud of them.”