Issue 505 – Leanna takes on the Thames

It’s one thing to take a dip in Melksham’s Blue Pool, but quite another to plunge the murky waters of the River Thames. But that’s exactly what Melksham hair stylist Leanna Bryant did in the name of charity.

The 23-year-old who works at Glow hair salon in King Street, took part in the Great London Swim on 3rd July, comprising a one-mile outdoor swim in the heart of the capital.
Leanna was one of 5,000 swimmers who took the plunge, and she has raised over £400 in sponsorship money for the charity Help a London Child.
Help a London Child improves the lives of thousands of vulnerable children living in the capital city suffering from abuse, poverty, homelessness, disability, and illness.
“I wanted to give myself a personal challenge and this was also a good way to raise some money for charity,” Leanna told Melksham Independent News.
“The water wasn’t actually as cold as you would expect - the toughest thing was being crammed amongst so many people in there, and the water was very murky!”
Leanna, who used to swim with Melksham Swordfish, said she would like to thank her friends and all of the clients at Glow who kindly sponsored her.
“People have been really generous - even people I don’t know that well. I’m proud that I did it and I’d quite like to do it again next year. I have always wanted to run a marathon but didn’t get on with the running part, so this was a great substitute!”
Leanna is still welcoming sponsorship, all of which will be donated to Help A London Child. You can sponsor her by popping into Glow.