A WEST Somerset woman has helped raise more than £200,000 for a charity which gives children with disabilities an opportunity to learn to swim.

Unity Speakman, of Withycombe, was among hundreds of swimmers who swam 10 kilometres along the River Dart to support Level Water.

She personally collected £535 with an online appeal, beating her target of £300, and collectively the swimmers brought in more than £217,000.

Charity swimmer Unity Speakman regularly swims in Minehead bay.
Charity swimmer Unity Speakman regularly swims in Minehead bay. ( )

Ms Speakman, who is a regular swimmer in Minehead bay and other local spots, completed the swim from Totnes, Devon, in less than three hours.

She said there had been a night of uncertainty as to whether the event would go ahead because of heavy rain which raised the risk of water pollution.

Ms Speakman said: “The rain certainly increased the flow, and with an outgoing tide we all wooshed downstream, clinging onto the feed stations for water and bit of flapjack.

“The Dart10k has been on my list as a life goal for many years.

“Swimming outside brings me so much joy, and combined with the physical challenge of the distance, this is a significant achievement.

“For many children, accessing swimming lessons is not as easy as turning up at the local pool, so many barriers might prevent them from finding an appropriate class.

“Swimming is like nothing else.

“The skills you develop, the confidence you build, and the joys you feel, are all universal.

Withycombe's Unity Speakman loves outdoor swimming.
Withycombe's Unity Speakman loves outdoor swimming. ( )

“Yet, access to swimming in the UK is not.

“I completed the course and am now home, showered, and refreshed, and feeling proud.”

A spokesperson for the charity said: “At Level Water, we use the power of swimming to improve lives for children with disabilities.

“Everybody should have the opportunity to learn to swim and fall in love with the water.

“From physical development to social and emotional confidence, swimming is a vehicle to change their lives for the better.

“To make this happen and create long lasting impact, we know it cannot be done in isolation.”

Level Water works to unite teachers, families, fund-raisers, pools, supporters, governing bodies, and children with disabilities in its mission.