Big Sea Swim will return to town's beach this summer

The Big Sea Swim takes place off Eastbourne beach where the bathing waters were rated as excellent last November under the European revised Bathing Water Directive.

Since the Big Sea Swim began in 2012 it has raised nearly £12,000 for MCS, the UK’s leading marine charity, ensuring the organisation can continue its work on marine pollution, protection and sustainable seafood.

The Big Sea Swim is open to swimmers of all abilities who like to do their breast stroke and front crawl away from the confines of the swimming pool.

Swimmers can register online now for the event on July 16. There are two courses - 1km for first time or less experienced swimmers and a 3km swim for those up for a bigger challenge.

Last year more than 100 swimmers took part in the event.

Ian Fraser, MCS head of fundraising, said, “Open water swimming is a rapidly growing adventure sport and the Big Sea Swim is becoming a regular feature on the calendar for swim challenge enthusiasts.

“The really great thing about this event is that you don’t need to be a serious open water swimmer; if you can swim 50 lengths of your local pool, you can get involved in the 1K swim. But if you are an experienced swimmer the 3K is a good challenge. Whatever your ability you can help raise funds to protect your seas.”

Not only did last year’s event see more swimmers than ever taking part, but the Big Sea Swim also raised more money than previous years.

Ian added, “We’re really keen to raise more money than ever before and would really encourage anyone who’s interested in wild swimming or who cares about our marine environment for future generations, to give it a go.”

Places are limited so swimmers are urged to sign up for the summer swim. To find out more visit www.mcsuk.org/swim.

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