Wild swimming has become more popular in recent years among people who prefer swimming in rivers and lakes than inside buildings.
Knaresborough woman Miranda Newbery is among those who have taken up the sport. She started last year during lockdown and says feeling connected to nature whilst exercising gives a sense of freedom and changed her life.
Ms Newbery currently swims in the River Nidd with friends once or twice a week but says pollution levels have become an increasing concern.
Last summer she introduced her children to wild swimming. They later fell ill and although she cannot be sure it was due to pollution she has since bought them snorkel-like masks to wear.
Swimming with a friend in Ullswater
She said:
“It makes me nervous, of course I couldn’t prove it was because of the water but it gives us all so much pleasure I don’t want to stop the kids doing it.
“The river is key to Knaresborough and used by so many. It is something we should look after with our politicians working to protect it too.”
The state of rivers has been a hot topic since MPs voted last month against an amendment to stop water companies, such as Yorkshire Water, pumping raw sewage into British rivers.
Andrew Jones, the Conservative MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough was among those who voted against the amendment. He later said he would support a new amendment to the Environment Bill that would reduce sewage in waterways.
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Failed pollution tests in Nidd
The Stray Ferret spoke to other local residents last week who echoed Ms Newbery’s views and called for action to reduce pollution in local rivers.
Jacqui Renton, from Knaresborough, who swims in the Nidd as part of her training for a British championships open water swimming competition, said the Nidd had failed water pollution tests and was “a potential health risk”.
Nevertheless the swimmers plan to keep plunging into the Nidd.
Ms Newbery says she’s shared laughter and heartbreak with other wild swimmers over the last year and encourages people to give it a go.
“There is something about the combination of the cold water and being in the beautiful natural surroundings that we are blessed with in Knaresborough that is truly restorative.”
“It’s a mindful practice and sharing that with friends is so special.”
