RYDE TEACHER TO TAKE ON MARATHON SWIM FOR TOWN’S YOUTH SERVICE

Ryde teacher Dave Sweet is set to take on the daunting challenge of swimming 10km in aid of Network Ryde, the town’s youth service, next month. Mr Sweet will be taking part in the Dart 10k in Devon on 7th September – just over 3 weeks’ time – to raise funds for the vital services Network Ryde provides for young people on the Isle of Wight. Network Ryde offers lots to young people, providing a range of support services including drop-in sessions, wellbeing programs, and specialised support for those with disabilities. Their allotment project empowers young people to connect with nature and develop new skills. The organisation also plays a crucial role in supporting young people’s mental health, education, and personal development through one-to-one sessions and partnerships with other agencies. Dave’s fundraising efforts will go towards providing swimming lessons for young people, many of whom have limited or no swimming ability. The group believes that swimming is a vital life skill for Island residents. Balancing work and family life, Dave has been dedicated to his training, taking advantage of early morning swims in Ryde’s Waterside pool and the open sea. He’s even been swimming out to the forts in the middle of the Solent. Dave hopes to raise at least £500. You can find Dave’s Justgiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/david-sweet.