River swim returns to the town’s sporting calendar - The Evesham Observer

River swim returns to the town’s sporting calendar

Evesham Editorial 26th Jun, 2014 Updated: 20th Oct, 2016   0

AN HISTORIC swimming contest last held in Evesham about 80 years ago will be making a comeback after two sports groups went to great lengths to bring it back.

Evesham Vale Triathlete Club and Tewkesbury Triathlon Club have joined forces together along with Evesham resident Fran Webb to bring back the Evesham Mile River Swim.

It was previously held in the 1920s and 1930s.

And their efforts to revive it will come to fruition next Saturday (July 5) when the event is once again held.




Depending on its success, the two groups hope to make it annual event. The invitation-only event will see a men’s and ladies race held with swimmers taking to the water of the River Avon to battle it out.

Proceeds will go towards the Evesham Bell Tower Appeal.


It starts at 4pm at Evesham Rowing Club with swimmers warming up and taking to the water in preparation for the races which will start at 5pm.

Residents are encouraged to attend to make the occasion as special as possible and Mrs Webb is appealing to Vale residents to help give her as much information about its past events so the contest can be held within the same traditions and

formalities as decades ago.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to bring back an old event to the town. It is the perfect summer event.” she told The Observer.

“I think the return of this event will be a great addition and really exciting for Evesham and will be a great way to mark the fact

the town has a new bridge in place.

“I first approached the Evesham Vale Triathlete Club about the idea in 2012 and for one reason or other we could not set it up back then but it has never gone away from my head.

“There’s very little information out there and online so if anyone knows anything about the Evesham Mile River Swim or had a relative who took part or who was involved at some capacity then it would be great to hear from them.

“Holding this event would not be possible without the support of the South Worcestershire Lifesaving and Lifeguard Club who have helped make sure this would be possible.”

Anyone who has information they would like to pass on should contact Louise Bugg by e-mailing [email protected] or calling Fran Webb on 07801 983112.

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