A Preston swimming team will cover 346.4 miles over 22,000 lengths this weekend to raise funds for Ukrainian refugees.
The UCLan team will swim for over 203 hours in pools at Fulwood Leisure Centre and West View Better Health Leisure Centre to buy medical supplies, food, water and shelter.
The swim starts this weekend, between Friday 11 and Sunday 13 March, with the team appealing for donations via their fundraising page.
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UCLan swimming team member Emily Kippax said: “Ever since hearing the news of war on Ukraine, I am unable to stop thinking about the pure fear and pain innocent families and civilians are devastatingly put through.
“People are losing not only their homes but their lives too, with families being torn apart by this tragedy – basic things such as water and healthcare are under extreme threat.
“Everyone is desperately trying to escape, but our thoughts must especially go to those with lower incomes who are struggling to afford to try.”
The UCLan swimmer said it seems impossible to make a significant difference, but the team wants to try.
Emily said: “The first thing that may spring to your mind is that you’re glad it’s not happening in your home country, your home town, or to your families, and your friends.
“However, the only thing that separates us is the fact we are lucky enough to be sat on the other side of the world right now.
“Basic things will not only help the heroic, injured soldiers fighting day and night to try and protect their country and loved ones, but also the innocent civilians who are crying out for our help.”
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To donate, visit – https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/emily-kippax
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