Amazingly, the sun came out as almost 300 swimmers took to the water on Saturday 7 August to take part in the annual Padstow to Rock Swim, raising vital funds for the end of life charity Marie Curie.
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This was the tenth year that the popular near one-mile swim event has been held in aid of the charity, with approximately 3900 swimmers taking part since 2011, raising over £700,000.
“We are back”, said Peter Tamblin, the Padstow to Rock Swim Coordinator and Swim Committee chairman, at the pre-swim brief, after the swim was cancelled last year due to the pandemic.
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Peter said: “The wind was a gusty westerly breeze, with early heavy rain, but conditions improved in the afternoon and by start time there were occasional glimpses of the sun. The river was a challenge at the mid-point, especially for the Non Elites, but we considered it was achievable.”
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Each swimmer made it across, though some needed a little help on the way, and all arrived at Rock "with a feeling of great satisfaction and exhilaration" where they were welcomed by family and friends from various vantage points.  Sadly, a number of registered swimmers had to withdraw due to the ‘pingdemic’ or someone in their household testing positive.  Each swimmer received the usual bottle of water, swim T shirt and a pasty.  Hot drinks were also available.
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This year, due to pandemic restrictions it was decided not to award any trophies, but organisers hope these will all be revived for 2022.
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Mr Tamblin continued: “In view of the difficult times, the amount of money raised for Marie Curie is unlikely to be anywhere near the mark of previous years, but we shall have to wait and see. We have already surpassed the half million pound mark for Marie Curie, an amazing achievement, so a heartfelt thank you to everybody.”
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Caroline Leighton, from near Truro, took part in the swim for the first time this year, and said: “Eight years ago my dear Mummy died of cancer. I was determined to care for her at my home for as long as I felt possible.I had the most amazing support from Marie Curie for the last two nights of my mother’s life. They were there when I needed someone to look after her, and me too. When you experience this level of compassion and care it really is humbling.”
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To find out more about fundraising for Marie Curie, including details of the next Padstow to Rock Swim, please visit: www.mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved.
Please also keep an eye on the Padstow to Rock Swim FB page and this website for more photographs and information."