Newsreader’s forgotten swimwear causes delay in BBC Radio Oxford’s Children in Need swim challenge

The second day of BBC Radio Oxford’s swimming challenge, organized for Children in Need, began with an unexpected hitch when one of its newsreaders realized he had forgotten his swimming trunks. Dan Freeman was compelled to undertake a last-minute journey to Abingdon to retrieve his swimwear, while his colleagues proceeded with their preparations at Oxford’s Ferry Leisure Centre. This event is part of The Thousand Mile Challenge, involving teams from BBC radio stations throughout the UK, each aiming to complete a distance of 24 miles (38.6km). The remaining members of the local team include presenter Sophie Law, journalists Sophie Rumsby and Jordan Brooks, and apprentice Jem Westgate. Having commenced the challenge on Monday, each participant on the team is required to swim 63 lengths daily throughout the week to achieve their objective. Mr. Freeman described himself as an “absolute wally” for having forgotten his trunks. The breakfast show broadcaster attributed the oversight to “the pitfalls of a 4:30 start in the morning.” He further explained, “Unfortunately I completely walked past the bag with my shorts and towel in.” “My wife messaged me, which caused no end of panic, but she took it to work in Abingdon and I’m now here and ready to go,” he added. Ms. Law acknowledged that by day two, morale was “not quite so high.” She commented, “It’s definitely aching more than yesterday… it’s not as fun as it was.” Mr. Brooks remarked, “Day one, there was lots of excitement about the challenge, we didn’t know what to expect.” He continued, “But on day two, there is a sombre cloud above the pool.” “Everyone seems to have a steely determination to just crack on and get the lengths done, as we know what is needed,” Mr. Brooks concluded. In contrast, Mr. Westgate maintained high spirits despite the demanding nature of the challenge. He stated, “After going out and having a great time last night, I’m feeling physically worn out, but mentally still very happy.” “I’ve noticed a less than ideal mood within the team. I get the feeling that many want to get in and out as fast as possible, but I’m thankfully still enjoying my time in the water,” he observed. He optimistically added, “Bring on day three.” Prior to the commencement of the challenge, Ms. Law and Mr. Freeman were given guidance by gold medal-winning Olympic swimmer Kieran Bird. Additional information is available at bbc.co.uk/swim. BBC Oxfordshire can be followed on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is also provided.