A LAKES swimmer has taken on ten tarns to help raise funds for Cumbria's red squirrels.

This summer Elaine Taylor set herself the challenge of swimming 10 Lake District tarns to raise £1000 for Grasmere’s red squirrels.

Over the course of six weeks, Elaine swam the length of 10 Lake Districts tarns including Loughrigg, Stickle tarn, Alcock tarn and many more.

Elaine said: “I started in July and have managed to complete two swims every week bar one when the lightning put a hold on things, it’s been a challenge but I have loved every minute of it.

“It’s a great way to keep fit and I love the adrenalin hit that I get from that first rush of cold water.

"Swimming in Loughrigg tarn is a particular favourite of mine, it is an amazing feeling swimming in the open air with views of the Langdale Pikes in the distance.”

The money raised will go towards supporting the National Trust’s red squirrel conservation work in Grasmere.