Europe's big river jump

Wild swimmers to unite on July 11th

Tens of thousands of wild swimmers across Europe will be making the Big Jump into their nearest river or lake all at the same time - on July 11th.

The Big Jump is a European river swimming day that aims to celebrate our waterways and reunite people with their rivers. The Big Jump is working towards the European Water Directive which says that by 2015 all rivers should be living, good for fish and good for swimming.

For the third year running the Outdoor Swimming Society (OSS) is leading the campaign in the UK with members holding a series of Big Jumps across the country. So far 11 Big Jumps are taking shape in places as varied as Lochgoilhead in Scotland and Wareham Quay on the River Frome in Somerset.

"It's a great day for people to take the plunge in a river near them," says OSS director Kate Rew. "Nearly 10,000 people a week visit our website looking for two things; somewhere to swim and someone to swim with. Our social swims - swims coordinated by members, for members with everyone swimming at their own risk - give people a chance to experience the joy and freedom of swimming outdoors."

83% of outdoor swimmers say it makes them happier and less stressed, with almost as many enjoying the feeling of connection they get with the local countryside. Professor Michael Dupledge of the Blue Gym research project into the physical and mental health benefits of exercising around natural water says:"The Outdoor Swimming Society are among the pioneers in using the natural environment to promote health and wellbeing!  Their work is an invaluable contribution to the idea of the Blue Gym".

The Big Jump takes place Sunday July 11th at 3pm, nationwide. Swimmers can find their nearest Big Jump and details of other events by visiting the OSS website www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com