Mia's Epic Marathon Swim for Cleaner Seas

Swimming towards Westbay, Susy escorts her on the final push

On 19th July, just one day after the first successful Jurassic Coast Marathon Swim of the weekend, Mia took to the water to continue the campaign to end sewage pollution along our coastline.

Swimming the demanding 12km route from the Lyme Regis CSO to West Bay, Mia faced not only the challenge of distance but also the physical and mental resilience required to navigate one of the Jurassic Coast's most iconic stretches of sea. Crossing the finish line in an incredible 3 hours and 8 minutes, she became the newest Jurassic Coast Marathon Swimmer.

The swim began as a partnership with fellow swimmer Lizzie, but the cold waters proved relentless. After a courageous 90 minutes, Lizzie was forced to withdraw, a reminder of the harsh reality of open water marathon swimming and the respect these conditions demand. While disappointed not to finish, Lizzie's effort and commitment to the cause were an important part of the day's story.

For Mia, the challenge became a solo test of endurance. Stroke by stroke, she pushed on, determined to carry the campaign forward and deliver a powerful message about the need to tackle sewage pollution in our coastal waters. As the miles passed and fatigue set in, support came from Susy, one of the earliest Jurassic Coast Marathon Swimmers, joined her and encouraged her beyond the imposing Watton Cliffs towards the finish. Her presence provided both experience and inspiration at a crucial stage of the swim.

Against the backdrop of the dramatic Jurassic Coast, Mia demonstrated extraordinary grit, resilience and determination. The swim was not simply a sporting achievement; it was a public statement about the importance of protecting our seas, beaches and marine life from the impacts of sewage discharges. Beginning at the Lyme Regis outfall and finishing triumphantly at West Bay, the route itself symbolised the campaign's message.

Being Presented with her unique Orange Hat that marks her as a marathon swimmer

As ‘Big Swim’ supporters followed her progress and cheered her on, Mia embodied the spirit that has driven the Junior WiLDSquad’s community efforts to raise awareness of water quality issues: courage, perseverance and a belief that our coastal waters deserve better.

Congratulations to Mia, who has just become a Jurassic Coast Marathon Swimmer. Her remarkable 12km swim from Lyme Regis to West Bay in 3 hours and 8 minutes is a testament to both human endurance and the growing movement to end sewage pollution.