A TEAM of six people from Wiveliscombe completed a 12k relay sea swim to help secure the future of the town's community outdoor pool.

The group of four teenage lifeguards and two pool trustees took just under four hours to cover the stretch of water from Lyme Regis to West Bay, in Dorset.

After four months of no swimming due to lockdown, they trained every night to prepare for the arduous fundraising swimming challenge, which has so far raised £2,500.

Most of them had never taken part in open water swimming before.

At times they were often 1k off shore, braving the cold sea and jellyfish of Lyme Bay.

They were coached and escorted on the day by The WiLDS staff, who provide open water swimming adventurous challenges and coaching in the South West.

Wiveliscombe Pool trustee Hamish McCarthy, an experienced open water swimming coach, said: "I was very impressed by the dedication of all the swimmers.

"Jumping off a boat into the sea takes great courage, especially when these girls had only had six weeks of preparation."

The lifeguards took a short break before going straight back on duty after the swim.

One of them, India Bartholomew, who had never been open water swimming before, said: "I can't believe we have done it.

"It has made a big difference in my life already. I'm far more confident in everything I do."

Wiveliscombe Pool is a registered charity and is currently operating well below its normal levels due to Covid-19 restrictions, leading to much reduced revenues.

It does not qualify for government support, so the lifeguards, volunteers and members are rallying round to help raise money for a new water pump to ensure the pool can open again next year.