Swimmers encouraged to take the plunge in Mere Mile for Shropshire hospital
Swimmers are being encouraged to take the plunge and sign up for an open water swim fundraiser in aid of Shropshire's orthopaedic hospital.
The League of Friends at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) wants people to take part in the Mere Mile, which is due to take place on August 30.
It will happen at The Mere, Ellesmere, and follows on from the success of last year’s event, where over 100 swimmers took part and raised £8,500 for the benefit of RJAH.
Over 40 volunteers dedicated their time to help with the running of the event last year; members of Borderlands and Ellesmere Rotary Clubs, safety boat crews and over 20 kayakers and stand-up paddle boarders who took to the water to ensure the swimmers were kept safe throughout.
This year participants are able to choose between two distances; one mile or 2.5 miles.
Entry numbers for each category are limited, with space for 200 swimmers to undertake the mile swim and 100 for the 2.5 miles.
Each participant will receive an event swim hat, goodie bag and finisher's memento.
Victoria Sugden, League of Friends charity director, said: “We were thrilled at the sheer number of people who wanted to get involved and support us last year with our first Mere Mile.
Encourage
“This year is going to be even bigger and better so we encourage entrants to secure their space, grab their goggles and get ready to take part in a fabulous fun day.
“All funds raised will go towards improvements for patients and staff at our much loved hospital.”
Nicola Bainbridge, Swimfinity founder and head coach, said: “We’re delighted to work in conjunction with The League of Friends again to bring you this year’s Mere Mile.
"We’ve increased the number of swimmers this year and it’s our ambition to double the amount raised.
“We’d also be happy to hear from any experienced kayakers who may want to join the event crew providing safety and support cover on the day.”
To register to become a swimmer, or to join the event crew as a kayaker, email rjah.communityfundraising@nhs.net or call 01691 404401.
To make a donation and support the fundraising event visit justgiving.com/campaign/meremile2021
