Anniversary for Turf swim

August is just around the corner and with that comes the annual Topsham to Turf Ferryman’s Swim which is now in its 10th year.

As we celebrate the first decade of the swim in recent times and its annual return appearance in the local calendar, a little reminder on its history.

Named in recognition of Topsham’s Ferryman Mike Stevens who resurrected this swim back in 2006 after discovering that the swim was a regular event for people in Topsham in the 1930s the last one being swum in 1938.

Being no stranger to endurance water events; 27 years ago Mike had held the world underwater endurance record remaining underwater in scuba diving equipment for an amazing 212 hours and 30 minutes hence the name of ‘The Human Fish’ being given him at the time, he swam it for the first time alone.

 
2013 was a record breaking year for the event despite coming close to cancellation due to bad weather.  That year 133 swimmers took to the water the largest number of competitors ever recorded at that point!

This event has supported the Estuary League of Friends charity from Mike’s first solo swim, raising much needed funds to help continue our valuable work supporting the elderly and vulnerable in the community.

Thanks to Mike, who can still be found on the Quay as Topsham’s Ferryman taking passengers to and fro across the Estuary, his interest in Topsham’s history and it’s link to his love of the water this is a great example of how ‘greats oaks from little acorns grow’.

We would love to break that 2013 record in this 10th Anniversary year so if you would like to take part in the swim or take up the opportunity of helping support the event on the day on land or in the water please visit our website www.estuary-league-of-friends.co.uk and complete an application form.

If you are able to help by Kayaking, own a boat, being at the Turf giving swimmers hot drinks or at Topsham with the registration or start of the swim please call the Estuary League of Friends office on 01392 879009.