LITTLE Jade Shepherd has stroked her way to a double swimming success - at the tender age of four.

The Avenue Private Day Nursery pupil, of Batheaston Grove, Leigh, has won her personal survival and 600 metres swimming badges.

"This is quite an achievement for a pre-school pupil," said the Leigh nursery's Maureen Hayes, who takes a party of eight children to Swimsmart, Bolton, every Wednesday.

"Jade started swimming 18 months ago and has done really well to reach such a distance at her age. She is a bright little girl with plenty of character and should go far if this success is anything to go by."

The little Teletubbies fan starts at Leigh CE Infants in the new school term.

Parents Karen - a Leigh Infirmary receptionist - and Darren said: "She started at nursery at nine months and it has done her a world of good. I'd recommend it to anyone.

"Jade's other hobbies are talking and Leigh Rugby League. She supports the team home and away, and is a great fan of Piggy the mascot."

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