TAVISTOCK resident Jan Demery, who suffered a severe stroke 12 years ago, has completed her toughest challenge of swimming 150 lengths and, in doing so, collected more that £1,000 for charity.

Jan has completed a swim equivalent to two and a half miles and having collected all of the money from friends and family who have kindly supported her, she managed to exceed her greatest expectations by raising £1,020.

Last week, all of the money raised was given to the Tavistock Stroke Club — a local charity based at the Anchorage Centre in Chapel Street, striving to help those who have suffered strokes and their families.

Members enjoyed their club’s Christmas lunch at Lifton Farm Shop restaurant, where Jan presented a cheque to the club’s co-ordinator, Christine Farrance.

Jan would like to express gratitude and appreciation to everyone who sponsored her. She especially wishes to say a huge thanks to Lauren and the rest of the staff at Meadowlands Leisure Pool— as without their help, support and encouragement, Jan said she would not have been able to complete her challenge.

After suffering a stroke in 2004, Jan spent four moths in hospital learning how to walk again. After major surgery three years later her consultant suggested taking up swimming.

To begin with, because of the left side spasticity, she went round in circles. But, with physio help, team members, encouragement and support at Meadowlands, she slowly began swimming — albeit one armed and on her back.

Two years ago she was challenged to swim a quarter of a mile non-stop to raise funds for Tavistock Stroke Club. The success of the swim was phenomenal, so she challenged herself even further to achieve a swim of 150 lengths.

On average Jan does 42/43 strokes (one armed) per length and on completion of her challenge she made more than 6,400 strokes in total.

Jan achieved her swim in good time and wished to thank everyone for their support and sponsorship.

The money raised has been given to the Tavistock Stroke Club — a local charity striving to help those who have suffered strokes and their families.