South Oxfordshire woman to ‘Lap the Lake’ for Sue Ryder

Catherine Crawford, from Henley-on-Thames, will swim at the Hi5Ski School in Reading in support of Sue Ryder’s palliative and end-of-life care services.

As an open water swimming fan, Ms Crawford took part in last year’s event and was inspired to sign up again.

She said: “Lap the Lake is a wonderful event where people come together for a shared purpose – to enjoy the open water and raise money for such an important cause.

“I don’t think anyone can say they don’t know someone who has been supported by Sue Ryder or been touched by the exceptional experience of receiving incredible palliative or end-of-life care.”

This year’s event takes place on Saturday, May 16, with swimming distances of 500m, 750m, 1km, and a new 2.5km option. The event is open to those aged 18.

All swimmers must wear a brightly coloured swimming hat in the lake, which they should bring on the day. There’ll be a limited number available to purchase on the day.

Ashni Parmar, regional fundraising manager at Sue Ryder, welcomed Ms Crawford’s enthusiasm.

She said: “We can’t wait to welcome Catherine and all those taking part in Lap the Lake this year.

“We’d encourage everyone – from seasoned swimmers to those wanting to take on a new and unique challenge – to join us and make a splash for Sue Ryder.

“Without you, we cannot continue to be there when it matters.”

Last year’s event raised £8,700, which could fund 290 hours of care.