Physiotherapists take on 50 Yorkshire wild swimming challenges before Christmas for cancer rehabilitation services

A pair of physiotherapists are braving the chill of wild wintry waters at scenic Yorkshire spots to raise money for cancer rehabilitation services.
By John Blow
Published 19th Nov 2020, 06:00 BST

Sally de la Poer, from Silsden, and Nicky Sykes, of Grassington, are aiming to complete 50 wild swimming “dips” in rivers, lakes or the sea before Christmas after taking up the challenge on October 1.

They have so far completed 33 plunges into water and raised more than £1,200 for the PINC & STEEL Cancer Rehabilitation Foundation UK & Ireland, a charity launched this year to support people with a cancer diagnosis.

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Mrs de la Poer, 42, said: “This is something we both feel really passionately about. Having worked with many people over the years with a cancer diagnosis, we have seen the huge benefits rehabilitation can bring.”

Sally de la Poer, right, and Nicky Sykes wild swimming in the River Wharfe in Ilkley. Picture: Tony Johnson.Sally de la Poer, right, and Nicky Sykes wild swimming in the River Wharfe in Ilkley. Picture: Tony Johnson.
Sally de la Poer, right, and Nicky Sykes wild swimming in the River Wharfe in Ilkley. Picture: Tony Johnson.

Locations of their dips include the River Wharfe in Ilkley, Janet’s Foss in Malham, Burnsall and elsewhere in the Yorkshire Dales.

Mrs de la Poer wished to thank all those who had donated, her patients at her business Bodyfix Physio, friend Katherine McNab, husband Nick and daughters Issy, 11, and Charlotte, eight.

People can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/50-dips-before-xmas.

Related topics:Yorkshire