Baths supporters go to great lengths in fundraising bid

The Friends of Bramley Baths – who later this year are due to take over the running of the historic Edwardian baths – are planning to hold a sponsored swim.

They hope the total distance completed by all those who take part will match the length of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal – 127 miles.

In an email publicising the event, Fran Graham, of the Friends, said: “It’s the second year running that supporters of the baths have got together for a sponsored swim to support Bramley Baths and raise funds for its future.

“This year’s sponsored swim has an ambitious idea attached to it. We want to see how far we can get, if we add together all the lengths swum – could we, in 
theory, swim the distance of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal that’s on our doorstep?”

Swimmers will be able to do their lengths at the baths on September 16 between 1pm and 4pm, although the friends are happy for people to do their lengths at a time and date that suits them.

A call has also gone out for volunteers to bake cakes and buns that could be served to the swimmers to stop their energies from flagging.

Sponsorship forms are available from the baths reception or can be downloaded at www.friendsofbramleybaths.wordpress.com

A campaign to save the baths was launched last year when the council proposed to reduce its opening hours, raising fears about the pool’s long-term future.

Councillors agreed earlier this year that the Friends could take over the running of the baths on a 25-year lease.