Slough swimmer raises £1,700 for charity at leisure centre

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An inspiring swimmer has raised more than £1,700 for charity after completing a 45km Swimathon challenge.

Hayley Moore, 38, from Slough, finished the swim in just under 12 and a half hours on Friday, March 20, at The Centre.

Her fundraising efforts will support Marie Curie and Cancer Research.

Ms Moore said: "I’ve never spent so long in the pool in one go before and apart from my arms being tired at the end, it all went smoothly and I sprinted my last 50m to give it a good finish.

"I loved it and had people cheering me on throughout the swim and at the end, which was great.

"It was all for a great cause and was great to do it for Swimathon.

"I’ve raised more than £1,700 so far on my page and I just can’t believe it.

"Everyone has been so supportive and left lovely messages."

Ms Moore first took part in the Swimathon in 2005 and has participated nearly every year since.

Swimathon is the world’s biggest annual pool-based fundraising swim run from 20 to 22 March across 450 pools in the UK and has just celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.

This year, Ms Moore set out to complete the 'triple-triple 5k' challenge: nine 5km swims in a single day, with only short breaks for food and drink.

She completed the full 45km distance in 12 hours and 26 minutes.

Ms Moore said she hopes her achievement will motivate her students and the wider community.

Louise Hipgrave, general manager at The Centre, said: "A huge congratulations is in order for Hayley who has inspired all of our students about what is achievable in the water with grit, hard work and determination.

"Well done Hayley and thank you for raising such an incredible amount for charity all while swimming at The Centre."

Ms Moore began swimming at the age of three and now teaches one-to-one lessons at The Centre every week.

She joined her first swimming club at age 10 and has spent the past 20 years teaching swimmers of all ages.

Young people interested in starting their swimming journey can enquire about lessons at The Centre by calling 01753 894700.

The leisure facility is managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Slough Borough Council.

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