Thousands complete UK's biggest open water swim

2 hours ago

Thousands of people have taken to the water for the UK's biggest open water swimming event, despite what some described as "choppy" conditions.

The Great North Swim in Windermere, Cumbria, featured a range of distances for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

There was also a half-mile "quiet wave" swim for those wanting more personal space and fewer crowds and, for the first time, stand-up paddleboarding.

Event Director Colin Murphy said is was a "celebration of the landscape, and of the community, and a chance for people to come together".

The event began in 2008 with about 2,200 participants but has expanded to approximately 10,000 swimmers and more than double that number spectating.

The water temperature was 16.8C (62.2F) which meant wetsuits were optional, although people were encouraged to wear them.

Liz Davey, 61, from Gosforth in Newcastle, completed the mile event and described conditions on Saturday as "pretty choppy".

"There was a fair bit of swell which made getting your breathing rhythm a bit difficult, although easier for breast-stroke swimmers like me because I could see the waves coming," she said.

"Thankfully there were a few brighter spells which lit up the lake."

Murphy said the aim was to provide an event that was suitable for anyone who wanted to take part.

"We even have a 250m swim for those just wanting to put their toe in the water, if you'll excuse the pun, and to see what open water swimming is all about," he said.

He admitted organising such a "mega event" meant it was "a long road" to get ready.

"Water safety, water quality, the lifeguards, medical cover, there's a lot of planning," he said.

"But the message is get in the water, take it easy, enjoy the view and we will keep you safe and get you round."

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