An Airedale NHS chief has taken the plunge to help start the A&E appeal.

Sally Houghton, Airedale’s non-executive director, completed the Craven Council Chairman’s Swimming Challenge.

She beat her target by swimming 9.1 miles, and raised £217 in the process.

Sally said: “I would like to say a massive thank you for the support received.

“My target was the bronze challenge of 384 lengths, but I have actually completed 586 lengths.”

Appeal organisers are looking for other people willing to raise money by swimming a long distance, either in open water or at their local pool.

Contact Airedale Hospital’s charity fundraising team via twitter at @airedaleNHSFTCF and they will support you every stroke of the way.