Open Castle Swim Success with Near Perfect Conditions.

The sun was shining on over 300 swimmers who took part in the annual Open Castle Swim to raise money for Mind Guernsey and The Sunflower Project.

Entering the water at La Vallette Horseshoe Pool, participants crossed Guernsey’s Havelet Bay, finishing their swim at Castle Cornet’s slipway.

The swim raised a total amount of £1,600.00, which will be split equally between the two charities.

This is the third year that Louvre Group has supported the Guernsey Swimming Club’s bay swim series, which has been at the mercy of the elements this year. However, luck was on their side for the Open Castle Swim which is always a highlight, attracting hundreds of swimmers.

Volunteers from Louvre Group and the Youth Commission handed out commemorative medals and a well-deserved hot chocolate to all the swimmers.

Jo Norman, Director of the Guernsey Swimming Club, said: ‘We’ve had another fantastic turnout this year with near perfect conditions. As always the atmosphere was great and everyone seemed to have enjoyed the event.

‘We’d like to thank the kayakers and service boats and the volunteers from Louvre Group and the Youth Commission who have helped to make it a success.’

Congratulations go to RAF veteran Mr Mike Bamford who at 86 was the oldest participant, and took home the Bill Green Memorial Trophy. He has been waiting years to take home the trophy, having first swum it in 1948.

Jane St Pier, Board Member of the Youth Commission, who helped at the event, said: ‘It is great to see so many people support the swim and raise funds for two great local charities. We are extremely grateful to benefit from the generosity of all involved with this tremendous community event.’

The Sunflower Project, run by the Youth Commission for Guernsey and Alderney, is home to numerous support services for children, young people and their families. Mind Guernsey provide a service promoting positive mental health for the community and encouraging a better understanding of mental health issues