A wild swimmer from Eaglesfield is preparing to take part in a competition in Scotland.

And she’s seeking other swimmers and cyclists to join one of her relay team mates as she makes the journey from Totnes in Devon to the competition venue, Taymouth Marina, by pedal power.

Sara Barnes, 57, a freelance writer and editor, took up the sport two years ago.

Previously a keen cyclist, she used swimming to aid her physical rehabilitation following major surgery.

And she fell in love with practising her strokes in the outdoors wearing just a swimming costume whatever the weather.

Having joined an online outdoor swimming community, she began travelling to take part in events.

The latest event she has signed up for is the inaugural Scottish Winter Swimming Championships, which take place on March 9.

Commenting on the appeal of wild swimming, Sara said: “It’s connection with nature and yourself. It’s a natural high and physical pain relief.

“There’s a really good outdoor swimming community.

“It’s a social network with the other swimmers who we only really know through social media.”

The relay team Sara has put together for the event features Lindsey Cole, an adventurer and Outdoor Swimming Society champion, who decided to give herself an extra challenge.

Lindsey, whose previous endeavours have included swimming the River Thames dressed as a mermaid, is cycling 750 miles up the country for the competition, raising money and awareness for Crisis.

She is due to arrive in Cockermouth on Monday before heading to Blyth in the North East on Tuesday.

Sara is looking for people who would like to join Lindsey for a dip in Crummock Water during her visit, and is seeking cyclist willing to join her on the trip from Cockermouth to Blythe to provide companionship and moral support.

Anyone wanting to swim or cycle with Lindsey can get in touch with Sara by email at sarabandco@gmail.com