Lorraine on fire in the water

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue control manager Lorraine (44) won the Manvers Mile Swim on Sunday.

The mother-of-two was on fire as she completed the course in 26 minutes and 20 seconds – making her the fastest female and overall third fastest swimmer.

The overall winner of the mixed race came in at 24 minutes.

The win was even more special as it came after a 25 year-break from the water and was the former Bolton resident’s first open swim event.

She said: “I am new to open water swimming, I come from a background of pool swimming and running.

“I felt like I needed to get back into it and liked the idea of a new challenge so took on open water swimming.

“It was an excellent lake to swim in, with good facilities and a real fun event that was well organised.

“I was a little bit nervous because it was my first race.”

The race raised £120 for The Fire Fighters Charity, an organisation close to Lorraine’s heart.

Lorraine, who has been in the fire service for 18 years, said: “I had cancer three years ago so I utilised the charity myself, and a couple of my staff are now having some support from the charity.

“It’s a very worthwhile cause.

“They helped to provide respite for me in between my treatment and before returning to work.”