FOUR West Devon swimmers took part in a swimming contest around Burgh Island last weekend. The annual swim is organised by the hotel on the island and has a maximum of 100 swimmers.

It was a stunning bright evening as the swimmers headed off for the 1.5km swim. The swell though was 3-5ft in places and made for a challenging and exhilarating swim.

Tim Mitchell completed the circuit in an excellent 28 minutes while Clare Short and Nicky Deane Simmons finished in 34mins. Mike Gunnell, who learnt to swim only four years ago, swam out to where the swell was at the greatest and decided the wild water was a little too severe so came back to the bay and a pint in the Pilchard Inn!

Clare Short said 'This has been one of the most exhilarating swims this year, quite scary in places, but by far the best! There is a chasm called Death Valley which we wanted to go through, but the swell was too big - we'll have to save that until next time!'

All the swimmers are members of Tavistock Triathlon Club. If you are interested in joining the club contact Clare Short on  or 07870763835 or go to tavistocktriathlonclub.co.uk