FUNDRAISERS in Clitheroe have gone to great lengths by swimming 15 miles for Help For Heroes at Ribblesdale Swimming Pool.

The group of 15 was put together after mum-of-five Michelle Starrier, 46, put an appeal on Facebook asking for volunteers to join her in the challenge.

The charity is close to Michelle’s heart as her daughter, Lance Corporal Adele Wilkinson, 27, joined the Royal Army’s Veterinary Corps seven years ago as a dog handler and toured Afghanistan in 2009. The swimmers hoped to raise around £1,500 for the charity and have now set their sights on a 30 mile swim next year.

Clitheroe driving instructor Michelle said: “It was amazing that so many people decided to do this challenge with me.

“Everybody is connected to someone in the forces in some way and this was a great way to give something back to them.

“The group was made up of swimmers of all abilities and we all enjoyed it.”

It took 65 minutes for the group to complete the distance, which took in 960 lengths of the pool.

Michelle said: “The charity is close to my heart but I think it’s also important to raise money for all charities as much as possible. I was surprised that so many people came with me and I hope that next time I can get more volunteers along.”

Michelle’s childhood friend, Julia Duffy, 47, who took part in the event alongside her son, said: “It’s a great cause to be involved it and I’m really proud that we managed to do it. It was a team effort and the atmosphere was amazing.

“It was hard work and it was a long way to swim but I’m glad we did it.

Donations can still be given via www.bmycharity.com/michellesfundraisingpage