Supporters raise money in memory of man who loved his pool sessions (From Wiltshire Times)

Supporters raise money in memory of man who loved his pool sessions

5:00pm Friday 1st March 2013 in Bradford

Staff and the public at Bradford on Avon Swimming Pool joined forces to swim for 24 hours in memory of a much-loved pool regular.

It was the second sponsored swim in memory of car salesman John Angell, who swam there up to five times a week with wife Kerena.

He had cancer, but, thanks to support from Dorothy House Hospice, was able to stay at his Hilperton home until his death in August 2011.

Money raised will go to the Winsley hospice, with participants hoping to beat the £1,300 collected last year.

Mrs Angell, 57, who swam several times during the event, said: “Swimming can still be very emotional for me, but this keeps Johnny with us and I think he would be very proud.”

Almost 30 participants swam a combined total of 44 miles.

Duty manager Bekkie Fair, who swam relays with other staff, said: “The atmosphere and build-up has been so much fun and the camaraderie has been really good. All our staff are lifeguards, so we are raising money doing something we enjoy.”

Dorothy House community fundraiser Emily Knight said: “We are very impressed with everyone’s determination and endurance. Kerena has put such a lot of work in.”

Collection pots will be kept at the Bradford on Avon and Melksham pools, and at Natwest in Trowbridge.

Donations can also be made at www.

justgiving.com/bradford-swimming-pool