Chester-Le-Street members take on Channel swim challenge to support North East veterans

A group of members at the Bannatyne Health Club in Chester-Le-Street have challenged themselves to swim 1,771 lengths of the club’s pool to raise money for East Durham Veterans Trust.

Equating to approximately 22 miles, equivalent to swimming the English Channel, the intrepid swimmers will swim up to 180 lengths each at the event on Sunday June 18th.

East Durham Veterans Trust is a charity based in Seaham, England, which supports veterans and their families from across the North East, through three main areas. Firstly, case managing issues that a veteran or family member may have by offering practical support, including finance and housing. Secondly, through social inclusion and finally, to support veterans and their families with mental health and wellbeing coaching.

Chris Parish who is taking part in the swim said: “East Durham Veterans is a local charity and I’m an ex-serviceman so if I can help in any way and give something back I’m willing to do that.”

Reni Rademann, fundraising manager at East Durham Veterans Trust said: “There are so many people out there that need extra help and have nowhere to turn so we need to raise funds to maintain our services for free.”

Andrew Cammiss, founder of East Durham Veterans Trust said: “I want to say a massive good luck to Chris and all his friends who are taking part in the challenge and I hope they do absolutely amazingly.”

Nicola Turner, general manager at the Bannatyne Health Club Chester-Le-Street, said: “We’re always happy to support our members in their fundraising efforts, and this is a brilliant cause.

“Good luck to everyone taking part, we will be poolside cheering you on.”

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