TAVISTOCK Stroke Club will benefit from the strokes of a determined member after her sponsored swim at Meadowlands pool.

Janet Demery of Tavistock decided to set herself a challenge and do a 'Strokes for Strokes' sponsored swim to raise money for the TSC.

Jan herself suffered a stroke nine years ago which has affected her left side and swimming presents a whole new range of challenges to overcome. It took Jan a year to train and she has been improving her fitness in the 'Fit as a Fish' session at Meadowlands under coach, Clare Short.

It was quite tough and Jan would stand under the cascade shower to allow the water to massage her weary shoulders after training.

Earlier this year she completed 16 lengths, or a quarter of a mile — all done with backstroke using one arm!

Jan completed her swim with a big smile on her face and was cheered on by the staff and other pool users.

Although it has taken a while to finally collect all the monies Jan has now been able to present Tavistock Stroke Club with the grand total of £490 towards club funds.

Jan said: 'A special thank you to Meadowlands for all the help in training for my swim and also to all my friends, family and acquaintances for their generosity and support.'

Her next fundraising event which will be a 'Steps for Steps', in the Meadows at a date to be arranged.