A ‘STALWART’ swimmer is getting ready to come back to her parents’ home to take part in the Mere Mile this month.

Nic Wharrier, who lives in Lancashire but whose parents live in Welshampton, close to the Mere in Ellesmere, has travelled to take part in the event since it was first launched in 2020.

The League of Friends to The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) are preparing to welcome her back to their open water swimming fundraiser for the fourth consecutive year for the one-mile swim.

She said: “I started open water swimming in 2018 after being inspired by accounts on Instagram.

“I've since developed a number of friends from all over the world who enjoy open water or wild swimming – it's a great, inclusive and diverse community.

“My first official experience was with a company called Swim the Lakes. They offer an introduction and provide sound advice on kit and the usual do's and don'ts.

“After getting my feet wet (pun intended), I joined a local Facebook group who meet up at rivers, lakes and the coast.

“There is also a quarry near Lancaster which is very popular with swimmers and scuba diving.

“My parents have lived on the outskirts of Ellesmere in Welshampton for 20 years and my mother was an orthopaedic nurse, now retired.

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“She let me know about the Mere Mile after hearing the news locally and of course I jumped at the chance.

“There’s a wonderful atmosphere on the day and it’s for a fantastic cause.”

This year’s event is taking place on August 27 – Bank Holiday Sunday – at the Mere, Ellesmere.

Participants can choose between swimming one mile or 2.5 miles, with entry numbers for each category limited.

James Bainbridge, from event partners Swimfinity said: “We’re really excited to be welcoming Nic back for the fourth time – she’s been a Mere Mile fixture since the start, which not only shows a real commitment to the cause but also demonstrates her love of outdoor swimming.

“Having something to aim for often helps keep people motivated, so we’re proud that the Mere Mile is providing Nic with a diary date that supports her own health and wellbeing, as well as a fabulous charity.”

Victoria Sugden, Charity Director, said: “We’re incredibly appreciative of Nic’s dedication to our Mere Mile event – we can’t wait to welcome her back.”

To support Nic’s fundraising efforts you can visit: https://friendsrjah.enthuse.com/pf/nicola-wharrier-3c69

To sign up, head to https://friendsrjah.enthuse.com/cf/mere-mile