More than 60 charity swimmers made a giant splash in the sunshine when they dived into the River Usk to help the Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice.

The annual Great Wye Swim organised by wild swimming expert and anti-pollution campaigner Angela Jones was switched to the Usk this year owing to the current state of the other river.

Swimmers undertook a 500m, 1km or 2km swim starting from the Island in Usk, with safety cover provided by Beachely-based Severn Area Rescue Association.

And Angela posted: “Congratulations to all that took part in “The Great Usk Swim “(which should have been the “The Great Wye Swim Monmouth”) supporting Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice with much-needed funds.

“Thanks for your patience on the change of dates and venue.

“What a wonderful sunny day with community support From Usk Major and Usk Singers and Mr T’s Catering Services and of all my joyful volunteers.

“And huge thanks To SARA Safety Support.”

Nikki Turner posted: “Thank you Angela and team - you put on a fabulous event and even managed to conjure up perfect swim conditions for us.

“It was our first time taking part but we met some wonderful people and can’t wait to come back next year in the Wye or Usk or both!”

Angela has been busy campaigning against river pollution this year, including her ‘Death of the Wye’ funeral processions, complete with floating coffin.

And she welcomed BBC Wales’ Derek Brockway for a dip last week (Tuesday, October 12) as part of his Weatherman Walking programme to talk about the issues.

“We laughed, we walked, we swam and we discussed at length the river and environment that needs so badly protecting,” said Angela, who has recently published a new book ‘Wild Swimming the River Wye’.

“I’ve always enjoyed his bright upbeat manner, but I can truly say this man is a magical caring gem that truly understands the importance of ‘Not Just Take’!

“He even wore the ‘Duck Trunks’ I bought him!”

Angela will be giving a talk about her new book and protecting our rivers at Monmouth’s Priory Rooms on Wednesday, November 3, at 7pm.

For more information about the talk and tickets priced £6, see rossiterbooks.co.uk