Two brave pupils took a very cold plunge today to raise cash for charity. Rebecca Simons and Kezia Wiggins of the Colne Community School, Brightlingsea, swam their way around Bateman's Tower, in the River Colne to raise money for the Children's Promise.

Rebecca was also taking the plunge on her 16th birthday.

She thought up the idea for the winter swim after seeing a television programme about Children's Promise. Between them the girls have already raised more than £300.

Children's Promise was created by seven major children's charities who have teamed up to fund projects to help children suffering from homelessness, abuse or neglect.

Rebecca tested the water on Tuesday in preparation for the 20 minute swim, and said it hadn't been too cold.

She said she and Kezia had planned to do the swim on New Year's Day, but the tide had not been right, so her 16th birthday had seemed a good alternative.

James McClure, deputy of the Cinque Port Liberty of Brightlingsea, was on hand to witness the swim.

To sponsor them telephone 01206 304874.

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