A SPEEDY swimmer has helped raised thousands of pounds for a cancer charity after smashing a relay world record.

Rose Vinter, 13, from Halstead, was part of a mammoth team of 100 swimmers who took part in the fundraising record attempt for Cancer Research UK.

They took to the water in an ambitious attempt to break the record for a 100x400m relay, which stood at 8hrs and 18mins and was held by a team from Australia.

The record-breaking bid took place at a sports park in Surrey.

Rose, who is a member of Halstead Swimming Club, and her fellow swimmers managed to obliterate the previous best by more than 20 minutes, achieving an official time of 7hrs and 54mins.

The teenager, of Stanstead Road, began swimming at an early age.

She said: “There was an air of nervousness, determination and a dedication to attempt to break the record.

“The crowd got behind every swimmer on the day with lots of cheering and you could really feel the excitement in the pool.

“As the last swimmer addressed the starting block everyone was standing and cheering and there were tears, but the noise was just electrifying and overwhelming.”

The event was organised by Rose’s cousin Rory Huggins, after he was inspired to start fundraising for Cancer Research by his grandmothers – one of whom is also Rose’s.

They have both battled and beaten the devastating disease.

The world record attempt has so far raised a staggering £30,000 for the charity, including more than £200 from Rose.

She said: “Both grandmothers were there to watch and this inspired me to do my best.

“To be chosen to swim with the level of the swimmers involved was a bit nerve-racking, but because everyone was there for the same reason there was such a great team spirit.

“I would like to thank everyone at Halstead swimming club as they have helped me be able to do the swim and be part of a world record team.”

n To donate to Rose’s campaign, visit fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/roses-swim-for-cancer online.