Youngsters took the plunge for charity

Children in Hartington have dived into raising charity cash by taking part in an annual sponsored swim.

Pupils from Hartington C of E Primary School and members of the Hartington Young Persons Activity Club (HYPAC) swam to success at Arc Leisure in Matlock on Saturday, October 15.

The charity bid was to raise vital funds for people with heart failure.

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This marks the sixth time that youngsters have taken part in the event, aimed at raising cash for the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) Mending Broken Hearts appeal.

The swim is organised by Hartington resident John Dean, who is chairman of the charity’s Ashbourne fundraising branch.

John, who is also a foundation member of the village school’s governors, said: “Two things stand out this year. Firstly, the large number of swimmers, helpers and spectators who told me what an enjoyable time they’d had.
“And secondly, the thousands of pounds pledged for BHF’s Mending Broken Hearts Appeal. Well done to all concerned and to everyone who has donated to such a worthy cause.”

Between 1996 and 2015, the British Heart Foundation has donated more than 200 defibrillator machines across Derbyshire. 
Through the Mending Broken Hearts Appeal, the BHF has funded £25 million of research into regenerative medicine across the UK.

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This work aims to help repair the heart following a heart attack, which would benefit the majority of heart failure patients.

Sophie Parkins, area fundraising manager for the British Heart Foundation in the East Midlands, said: “Once again the sponsored swim has been a huge success.

“We are so very grateful for the support from Hartington young people.

“Special thanks go to John Dean who does an incredible job of organising the event, and thanks to the branch and other volunteers for helping on the day.”

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Sponsor money for the swim is still being collected by pupils before they can donate it to the special appeal.

Plans are already taking shape for next year’s sponsored swim.

For more information and to get involved contact John on [email protected].

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