Louvre Group Supports Guernsey Charity Swim

Choppy conditions didn’t deter over 350 swimmers who took part in the annual Open Castle Swim to raise money for The Hub and the Guernsey Society for Cancer Relief.

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

The total amount raised for the charities has not yet been confirmed but will be more than £1,300.00.

This is the second year that Louvre Group has supported the Guernsey Swimming Club’s bay swim series, of which the Open Castle Swim is always a highlight, attracting hundreds of swimmers.

The first swimmer to the Castle Cornet slipway was Youth Commonwealth Games and Island Games team member Laura Le Cras, followed by Mr K Knudsel and Connor Oxborough in second and third place.

Volunteers from Louvre Group handed out commemorative medals and a well-deserved hot chocolate to all the swimmers. ‘We were all impressed with everyone who braved the water, congratulations to everyone who took part,’ said Laura Tardiff, one of the organisers from Louvre Group.

Jo Norman, Director of the Guernsey Swimming Club, said: ‘We’ve had an exceptionally good turnout this year and while conditions were not perfect, everyone seems to have enjoyed the event.

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

‘La Valette is part of the club’s history, so it is very pleasing to start the swim today from the Horseshoe Pool.’

Congratulations to Ms Patsy Self who at 81 was the oldest participant, and took home the Bill Green Memorial Trophy. It was a real family affair this year with three generations of Bill Green’s family taking part - his daughter, Maggie Talbot, along with his granddaughter and great granddaughter.

Peter Atkinson, Chairman of the Guernsey Society for Cancer Relief, who took part in the swim for the first time in 45 years, said: ‘I am delighted to see so many people support the swim and contribute so generously to the charities’ fundraising.’

The Hub, run by the Youth Commission for Guernsey and Alderney, is home to numerous support services for children, young people and their families. The Guernsey Society for Cancer Relief support cancer sufferers in the island.