Kate and Eugenie Verney are swimming the seven kilometres, from lower Lydbrook to Huntsham Bridge, as part of the first Wild Wye Swim. They are fundraising for SARA (Severn Area Rescue Association) who are organising the event.

Kate, 56, is a local Body Harmony teacher, physiotherapist and massage therapist. She is also a teaching assistant at St Joseph’s Primary School.

Eugenie, 63, is a PR consultant who lives in Ascot. She is a regular wild swimmer.

Kate told the Ross Gazette:?“This isn’t a race, there are no timing chips or prizes involved. It’s a personal challenge for everyone taking part. There’s no guarantee we’ll both make it to the end, although we will of course be giving it our very best shot.”

All donations big or small are most gratefully received: SARA is a volunteer run organisation, relying entirely on donations as it receives no central or local government funding.

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