A KNUTSFORD scout’s fundraising effort for the World Scout Jamboree2015 is going swimmingly – with his latest challenge almost blowing the competition out of the water.

Max Davies, 15, completed the second of his two open water swimming events on September 6, The Coniston Swim.

The Hillside Road resident, who was joined in his challenge by dad Steve and Knutsford Rugby Club coach Gavin Hewson, completed the 5 ½ mile swim in 3hrs, 1min – finishing second in the under 20 category.

Max is one of four scouts chosen to represent Knutsford Scouts at the international scout event in Japan next year and took part in the open water challenges to help raise part of the £3,400 needed.

“I was really pleased just to finish the swim,” said Max, who was the third youngest participant.

“When I learnt how close I had come to winning my group, I was slightly disappointed but it did not detract from the fantastic sense of achievement.”

The Knutsford Academy student completed the first of his two challenges, the Great North Swim, in Lake Windermere back in June but has been training at Boundary Park since May.

“Getting into a cold lake when it’s cold and raining is not pleasant experience but I realised I needed to keep up training if I was going to complete the main event,” he said.

“The best part without a doubt was finishing. It was a great feeling getting out, looking back down the lake and seeing how far we had all swam. I was also very pleased that I beat my dad and Gavin.”

Max’s training and challenges have certainly paid off. He was raised more than £800 – more than double his fundraising target.

“The support I have received has been fantastic and I would love to thank everyone for their encouragement and sponsorship,” he added.

“I never dreamt that I could raise this amount and it is a true reflection on people’s generosity both within the Knutsford’s Scouts and Rugby Club community.”