Stuart Clarkson

10:00am - 2:00pm

Email the studio

Travis

Why Does It Always Rain On Me

Listen Live Podcasts

Ilkley swimmers take on English Channel challenge for earthquake-hit family

Wednesday, 14 October 2026 09:19

Both survived the earthquake, but the swimmers say the family had no insurance and now face having to rebuild their lives from scratch.

A group of senior swimmers at Ilkley Pool are preparing to take on a 34km swimming challenge to support the family of one of their teammates.

The group, who regularly attend late-night swimming sessions at the pool, will attempt to collectively swim the equivalent distance of the English Channel in just three hours on Sunday 25th October.

They are raising money for the family of fellow swimmer Jorge, whose mother and brother lost their home and possessions following a 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Caldas, Colombia, on 10th August.

Both survived the earthquake, but the swimmers say the family had no insurance and now face having to rebuild their lives from scratch.

The group said:

“We are a group of senior swimmers from the late-night sessions at Ilkley Pool who are aiming to swim the equivalent 34km distance of the English Channel over three hours.

“We are trying to raise as much as we can for the family of one of our team, Jorge, whose mother and brother lost their home and possessions when it was destroyed in the earthquake.

“By a miracle they both survived but, as with most families of modest means, they have no insurance cover so will have to start from nothing to rebuild their lives.”

The swimmers will now be hoping the Ilkley community gets behind their challenge as they attempt to cover the full 34km distance on Sunday 25th October.

More from Local news

Louis Theroux makes special visit to Martin House children's hospice

Filmmaker and broadcaster Louis Theroux has paid a special visit to Martin House children’s hospice, spending time with children and families supported by the charity.
Tributes paid to much-loved Ilkley performer Gary Holmes

Tributes have been paid to Gary Holmes, a popular performer who entertained audiences at Ilkley’s King’s Hall for many years.
‘Big Knickers Network’ set to launch in Ilkley

A new community network aimed at helping women build confidence, make connections and support one another is launching in Ilkley this week.
West Yorkshire Police trials world's first nitrous oxide breathalyser

West Yorkshire Police is taking part in trials of what is believed to be the world's first roadside breathalyser for detecting nitrous oxide.
Outside the Box expands services for adults with learning disabilities into Otley

Ilkley-based Outside the Box is expanding into Otley to support more adults with learning disabilities and autism
The Box Tree unveils new-look restaurant and bar in Ilkley

One of Ilkley’s best-known restaurants has unveiled a new-look bar and restaurant following a major transformation.
Leeds Bradford Airport strikes to 'escalate' over half term

Strikes at Leeds Bradford Airport are set to escalate, with further walkouts planned over the October half-term period.
Ilkley to host first Pumpkin Festival this half term

Ilkley's first Pumpkin Festival will bring free family activities and a town-wide trail to the town this half term.
Ilkley podiatrist wins national award for diabetic foot care

A specialist podiatrist at LFW Podiatry has won a national award recognising her work in diabetic foot care.
Ilkley church to host charity dance music night

A charity dance night is coming to Ilkley's All Saints Church next month, organised by the team behind the town's Breakfast Raves.
Scarborough’s Alpamare waterpark set to be sold with 99-year car park lease

Scarborough's Alpamare waterpark is set to be sold alongside a 99-year peppercorn lease of the adjoining car park.
Martin House opens new memorial garden for bereaved families

Bereaved families supported by Martin House Children’s Hospice were joined by Chris Packham this week as they opened a new garden in memory of children and young people who have died.
Historic roof repairs get underway at Ilkley Manor House

Work is underway to repair the roof of Ilkley Manor House, with specialists aiming to preserve as much of the Grade I listed building's original material as possible.
Opening date announced for new Ilkley record shop

A new record shop selling vinyl and pre-loved items has announced when it will open in Ilkley.
£2.95million country home near Ilkley goes on sale for first time in 30 years

A five-bedroom country home near Ilkley has been put on the market for the first time in more than three decades.
Ilkley man to take on Yorkshire Three Peaks for brain injury charity

An Ilkley man is preparing to take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks to raise money for a charity.
Judy Murray surprises young tennis players during Ilkley visit

Young tennis players in Ilkley received some expert advice when renowned coach and author Judy Murray made a surprise visit to a local club.
New community podcast launched by Right at Home

Right at Home has launched a new podcast aimed at sharing stories and experiences from people across the local community.
Ilkley exhibition celebrates female body for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

An Ilkley gallery is hosting a month-long photography exhibition celebrating the female body while recognising those whose lives have been affected by breast cancer.
Ilkley business owner takes on 90-day challenge wearing same wool dress

An Ilkley business owner is wearing the same British wool dress every day for 90 days as part of a new campaign promoting sustainable clothing habits.