A LARGE contingent of supporters turned out to cheer on the brave competitors who took part in the Norman Grills Quay to Quay Swimathon at Bere Ferrers recently.

The event was inspired by 83-year-old Norman Grills, the husband of West Devon mayor Cllr Christine Grills. Mr Grills, who was born and brought up in the village, would regularly swim the mile across the river from Bere Ferrers quayside to Blaxton Quay, sometimes making water-bourne deliveries to a resident on the opposite side of the river.

Although Mr Grills no longer makes the swim himself, other villagers have taken up the challenge and some 14 participants took part in this year?s event.

As the challenge was to cross the river by any safe means, not everyone chose to swim ? some used kayaks and others swam one way back to Bere Ferrers, having run to Lopwell.

The competitors were cheered home by a large crowd and rewarded with a burger and specially designed certificate, designed by resident Bev Slaughter.

Robin Musgrave received the trophy for the most deserving swimmer while Sam Keightley won the trophy for a most deserving crossing by any other means, both of which were presented by Norman Grills.

Ann Jeffries was given a £5 book token for collecting the largest sum of sponsorship, £150. The event, organised by Christine Poole, raised a total of £400 which will be put towards the children?s play area.