THE Wild Wye Swim, planned to raise funds for Severn Area Search and Rescue (SARA) is now seeking sponsors, after filling up completely only three days after opening to entrants on Wednesday, February 1.

The event, which brings swimmers from across the area to Symonds Yat is running for the first time in September.

SARA deputy chairman, Mark Carwardine, said: “Up to 75 swimmers will swim down the Wye from Kerne Bridge to Huntsham Bridge, near Symonds Yat, a distance of around 12km. A further 75 swimmers will aim to complete the shorter 7km distance, from Lower Lydbrook to Huntsham Bridge.

“The swim course includes the spectacular long bend in the river below the Yat Rock viewpoint. SARA crew members and safety boats, from across the different SARA Rescue Stations, will keep everyone safe.

“We are absolutely delighted with the response. We hope that this will become an annual event, bringing visitors to the area as well as generating funds and publicity for SARA. It is a great opportunity for people to enjoy the beautiful Wye Valley, and for SARA to utilise our skilled volunteers and specialist safety equipment.

“We are very grateful to a number of landowners in the area for making this event possible. We are also looking for sponsors for the event, and would love to hear from any organisations that are interested in becoming involved.”

Details of the event and how to contact SARA are on the event website, www.wildwyeswim.org.uk.

Mark added: “SARA is entirely manned by volunteers who are always on standby and is recruiting now. We are not directly funded by any central or local Government agencies and depend completely on donations to fund its operations.”