Claire Bridges, supported by her friend Debbie McNally, took part in the Swim22 challenge to raise funds for Diabetes UK and awareness of the condition. It was a very personal challenge for Claire as she has lost both her brother and sister to type 1 diabetes so is determined to help raise funds for the charity which carries out research into this serious condition.

Claire’s brother, Paul Kings, died at the age of 40, in January five years ago, and her sister, Elaine Kings, died the week before Christmas last year. Elaine was just 45 years old.

Claire and Debbie swam 22 miles at the Halo swimming pool in Ross-on-Wye, earlier this year and now all the donations have been collected she is delighted that she has raised £1,025 and Debbie raised £210.

Claire told the Ross Gazette that she is very grateful to everyone who supported them and donated to this important charity which is now very close to her heart.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.