KEEN swimmers are being encouraged to book a place early for the the third Exmoor Open Swim to avoid missing out.

Entries are now open for the event on September 29 and organisers are expecting the competition which takes place in the picturesque Wimbleball lake to sell out again.

While there are medals for those who come in the top three in their respective age groups, the majority of swimmers will simply be challenging themselves to participate in a safe open water environment.

Organiser Michael Morris said: "For 2019 we have introduced an extra challenge for those wanting to compete at the longest distances at Exmoor Open Water Swim and its sister event Dartmoor Open Water Swim – the woman with the fastest combined time to complete both the 8km Dartmoor and 6km Exmoor swims will be crowned Queen of The Moors and the fastest man will be King of The Moors.

"Plus there will be titles of Ice King and Ice Queen for those swimming “skins” (without a wetsuit) of course.

"Everyone who compete in both swims will receive a Twin Moors collector t-shirt and be entered into a prize draw to win a Strel Swim Adventure Holiday."

Participants can either swim the Elite 6km course, 4km or 2km.

Mr Morris added: "The 6km is for those speedy swimmers who are here to race, while the 4km swim distance is designed as a challenge, even for the seasoned long distance open water swimmers.

"It is slightly longer than an Iron Man swim however it is perfect for those people who are going at a slower pace.

"And for those not ready for 4km but wanting to join in we have the 2km course."

For more details visit exmoorswim.co.uk.