Swimming fundraisers racked up hundreds of kilometres in the rain at Letchworth’s outdoor swimming pool on Saturday to raise more than £15,000 to help those living with cancer.
All Out Swim Letchworth, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, attracted dozens of all ages, with 1.5km, 2km or 5km distances on offer.
And those fundraising included young Harriet Lucas, who had a broken arm – but was still able to contibute to the total thanks to her friend Ella Trisic, who swam the distance for her.
Macmillan’s Donna Lee said afterwards: “A huge congratulations to everyone – despite the rain it was a fantastic day.
“Events like this truly inspire me – amazing people doing amazing things, either in memory of a loved one or because they’ve had support themselves. I cannot thank them enough.
“We also couldn’t run the event without the dedication of our volunteers, who are completely invaluable to us.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone, and we look forward to being inspired by you all next year.”
The day started with the under-18s’ 1.5km swim at 8am. There were two rounds of 2km – starting at 10am and 3.30pm – and from 12 noon to 3pm the hardiest fundraisers swam 5km.
Each wave of swimming was preceded by a warm-up on the grass by the pool – and a barbecue worked on through the rain to keep everyone’s strength up.
Fundraisers and supporters took to social media afterwards to give their thoughts on the day.
“Well done, a great swim, and congratulations to all for their efforts,” said Robert Warren of the Baldock Network Group.
“It was good fun as well, but my legs were something else the next day.”
Sarah Walton said: “It was a very well organised event – 5km was toughter than I thought it would be, my calves are still stiff – but if it was easy to do it wouldn’t be a challenge.”
More than £15,000 was confirmed raised on the day, and online funds are still being totted up. Donna told the Comet yesterday the final total could be as high as £30,000.
For more see macmillan.org.uk or contact swimming@macmillan.org.uk.
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