On Friday a group of 33 wild swimmers from Surrey Outdoor Swimmers, Teddington Bluetits and other local outdoor wild swimming groups swam the Walton Mile from just above Walton Bridge down to the club. The Club (Neil West) provided safety support and the use of showers and refreshments after the swim, which the organisers hope will become an annual event.
This was largely made possible by the data we now have on bacteria in the river through the Thames-Watch website, and an unusually long period (almost three weeks) when the levels of bacteria have met the criteria for bathing waters. Sarah-Jane Kelland of Surrey Outdoor Swimmers and Teddington Bluetits said “It was lovely for so many to be able to enjoy the river in confidence, by having a better awareness of water quality.”
Pics by Teddington Bluetits
