Fundraising pair are going to great lengths

10:07am Friday 25th May 2007

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TWO friends with a passion for outdoor swimming are pulling on their trunks to raise cash for charity Save The Children.

Bob Holman and Dave Pratten have embarked on a challenge to swim a mile in every outdoor pool and lido still open in the UK.

The duo hope to raise thousands of pounds for vulnerable youngsters through their effort, which will take them from Cornwall to Scotland.

Bere Regis Swimming Club chairman Bob, 62, said they were inspired by the book Liquid Assets, which focuses on Britain's lidos.

"The book lists 98 pools but we gather there's another one that's reopened since," he said.

"But generally there are more closing than opening, which is very sad indeed.

"Already we've proved there's still a demand. If they're properly managed it's quite feasible financially to keep these pools open."

Bob, who began swimming at an open-air pool during the 1950s, said the challenge is bringing back memories.

"This really is us revisiting our youth," he said. "These lidos were the places where young people used to meet, it really is a journey back in time for us."

Bob and Dave, 54, began their challenge in Wiveliscombe, Somerset, and have completed four swims to date.

"The reactions have been wonderful," he said. "Everyone's been very friendly and supportive. At the first swim the chairman of the pool's trust was there to greet us. She made us tea after the swim and donated £20. If we get a similar response around the rest of the country we'll be well pleased."

Bob, who swam the English Channel at the age of 47, said he and Dorset County Council education adviser Dave are hoping to complete the challenge this summer.

He said: "It's going to be tough because the pools range from down in Cornwall to up near Aberdeen, so it may take two summers.

"But we're planning to do the major part of the challenge during the summer holidays in July and August - we'll be swimming several times a week."

The duo are keen to raise as much money as possible for Save The Children.

"Dave's wife Sally is a leading light with the charity in Swanage so it seemed a really good choice to support," Bob added. "Our minds are completely open because we don't know how big this is going to get.

"But the initial response has been very encouraging."

To sponsor the pair, contact Bob on 01305 848262 or Dave on 07879 258353.

Alternatively, you can email bob.holman@tiscali.co.uk or D.Pratten@dorsetcc.gov.uk