Swimming fundraiser who is registered blind raises almost £300 for Macmillan Cancer Support at All Out Swim Letchworth

Noel Frarey warming up at All Out Swim Letchworth. Photo: Karyn Haddon (Image: Archant)

Noel Frarey – who was born blind, lost his left eye aged 12 and only learned to swim in his late 20s – completed 40 lengths of the town’s outdoor swimming pool in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support as part of All Out Swim Letchworth.

And the 44-year-old has told the Comet how he was inspired by one of the people involved in running the Pisces Swimming Club for disabled people at North Herts Leisure Centre, and how she has reacted to being diagnosed with cancer.

“She’s such a fighter,” said Noel. “She just carries on. She’s still helping everyone, she’s still got a smile on her face. She really changes the atmosphere at the club. I just thought I’d try to give something back.”

Swimming has become a real passion for Noel, who has limited vision in his remaining right eye.

Noel Frarey warming up at All Out Swim Letchworth. Photo: Karyn Haddon (Image: Archant)

“I’d always enjoyed watching it on TV and I was frustrated I couldn’t do it as a child,” he said.

“I just fell in love with it straight away. Now I’m in the pool three or four times a week, sometimes more.”

This is the third charity swim by Noel, who went to Stevenage’s Barnwell School. After smashing his initial target of £200, he set a new goal of £300 – which he had almost reached as the Comet went to press.

“To reach the target would be really great,” said Noel.

Noel Frarey at All Out Swim Letchworth. Photo: Karyn Haddon (Image: Archant)

“It’d be wonderful to help provide a nurse and other vital services for someone living with cancer.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the challenge, and knowing that I’ve helped to support a great cause makes it all worthwhile. I’m definitely going to sign up for next year’s event.”

If you’d like to contribute to Noel’s fundraising, go to justgiving.com/noelfrarey.