OPEN-WATER swimming enthusiasts have raised money for a cancer charity after an aquatic Lakeland adventure.

On a cold winter evening earlier this year, the South Lakes Women Go Swimming planned a journey to challenge themselves physically and mentally.

The challenge was to swim the length of 14 lakes, tarns and meres for CancerCare, as many of the group had benefitted from this organisation. 

On September 9 the group of eight women from Grange swam the final length of their challenge in Windermere to a rousing reception from family, friends and visitors at Fell Foot Park.  

Collectively, they have swum over an incredible 100 kilometres in 14 Lake District waters since April 1 and were able to present £3,300 to CancerCare.

CancerCare marketing ifficer Paul Duncan said:  “It was fantastic to be on the shore with so many well-wishers and supporters to see the ladies complete their epic challenge. Seeing them making their way through the water made me appreciate how much they have put themselves through to raise money for people in their local community. 

"The fabulous friendship they have forged with each other was inspiring to see and every penny of the incredible amount of money they have raised will be put straight to use helping people struggling to cope with a cancer diagnosis or grief.”