Record entry announced for charity swim

Organisers of the 8th Topsham-Turf swim are celebrating the annual event’s biggest number of participants, who are estimated to have raised over £8,000 so far with more sponsorship to be added over the coming weeks for a local charity.

The event, which has been staged by the Estuary League of Friends since 2005 and is now supported by Michelmores Solicitors, witnessed 133 swimmers start the mile long swim on Saturday 17 August at Topsham Ferryman’s Slipway on their way to the Turf Hotel.

Exeter St James resident, Nye Levett was first swimmer back with Laura Davies from Baker Street, Exeter, the first female swimmer to finish. Topsham’s own Eileen Duthie raised the most sponsorship money contributing over £700 while 13 year-old Tom Veale, also from Topsham, was the youngest competitor.

Estuary’s chief executive, Rachel Gilpin said: “We had previously said our aim was to break last year’s record of 100 swimmers and surpass the £8,000 raised last year. We are truly delighted to have achieved this and I’d like to thank all the swimmers, all those who helped on the day, Michelmores for their continued backing and all the people of Topsham who have supported us.”

The Estuary League of Friends is the local charity working to improve the quality of life of those in need of care, comfort and support in Topsham, Countess Wear, Cat & Fiddle Park and Clyst St Mary, Clyst St George, Ebford and Exton.