Councillors dip in for twin town funds (From Oxford Mail)

Councillors dip in for twin town funds

9:30am Monday 17th September 2012 in News

AT A time when most people were enjoying a Sunday morning lie-in, two Oxford councillors were in their swimming trunks and goggles with fundraising on their minds.

Each year, the Oxford Leon Association and Trust holds a sponsored swim, which is at present raising money for clean water and toilets at a health centre in Oxford’s Nicaraguan twin town.

But this year, Oxford City Council leader Bob Price and fellow councillor Oscar Van Nooijen were unable to take part in the swim in July because of council commitments.

So the pair, pictured, agreed to take part in their own swim in Hinksey Pool, Lake Street, yesterday.

Mr Price, who completed 30 lengths and has raised more than £100 for the cause, said: “It was extraordinary. I have never been there at that time on a Sunday morning and there were at least 30 swimming, so it was a great crowd to cheer us on.

“I normally run on a Sunday morning, but I actually enjoyed this immensely.”

Mr Van Nooijen managed to complete 40 lengths of the pool.

The money the pair raised will be added towards the total of about £3,000 collected by swimmers in July.

Picture: OX54368 Ric Mellis