Sunset swimmers illuminated the darkness raising hundreds of pounds to support research into rare childhood cancer.
More than 35 swimmers descended on Ellerton Lake, near Scorton, with a mission to raise awareness of the disease.
The TeamLuke Foundation held the charity open water swim where swimmers braved the dark autumnal waters on Saturday raising £1,500 with their efforts.
Swimmers had the option of tackling 1km or 2km distances during the twilight event.
They set off at sunset leaving them to illuminate the lake with their tow floats.
“The swim was great, it was really nice,” said Jeremy Kemp, one of the swimmers who took on the challenge. “I have never done a night swim before. It was calm and beautiful and a lovely evening to swim in cold water. It was stunning, really beautiful.”
Swimmer Alicia Purdy added: “It was discombobulating not being able to see. It was really well organised. We would recommend it as it is something different.”
The £1,500 raised will support the TeamLuke Foundation with its work to raise awareness of Neuroblastoma.
The Foundation was set up in memory of Luke Bell, from Darlington, who passed away on December 23, 2018, from high-risk neuroblastoma, aged just eight.
Mark Bell, Luke’s dad and Foundation chairman swam without a wetsuit. He said: “Luke would be laughing at the state of me currently. He inspired people.
“I thought back to Luke’s journey when he was going through treatment.
He used to say, ‘let’s just get it done’ when he had to do something he didn’t want to do. That got me fired up to do this and it inspired me. He would be proud of the event.”
The event was organised by Graham Bell, Luke Bell’s grandad. #
“It’s about Luke’s legacy, it’s about people enjoying themselves. People will have a memento from the night and we hope they have a mental connection with the charity and will want to get involved in another event in the future.”
Neuroblastoma accounts for six per cent of all childhood cancer cases in the UK, resulting in 95 diagnoses each year. The foundation was established in Luke’s name with the goal of raising awareness and funds for research, to prevent other families from suffering the same tragedy.
Mark said: “The turnout is incredible. I am blown away. To have the event organically grow every year, to a point now where I don’t know most of the swimmers this year, is brilliant. It means we are reaching new people and getting new supporters on board. I am really humbled by it.”
This year the foundation has also held a family fun day with giant inflatables and charity rugby matches. Individuals have also taken part in their own fundraising challenges from charity cycles, triathlons and running challenges.
For more information about the TeamLuke Foundation visit www.teamluke.org.uk.
