SWIMMERS in Otley are used to taking an icy dip in the River Wharfe on New Year's Day.

This year, though, they can look forward to enjoying a decidedly warmer river challenge for charity.

Alice's Summer Joe Town Memorial River Swim will take place on Saturday, July 1 at Wharfemeadows Park.

The event is being organised by Helen Town, who helps organise the January 1 swims in memory of her father, and will raise money for breast cancer treatment and research.

It has also been arranged as a favour for four year old Otley girl Alice Metcalfe, who was devastated not to be able to take part in the last New Year's Day swim.

Alice's mother, Mel, said: "Alice - who was born three months premature which has left her with a few health issues - was very upset that, for a second year running, she was unable to do the Joe Town Memorial Swim due to ill health.

"I posted a Facebook update on the day saying how Alice was upset with me and then Helen messaged me and kindly offered to come to Otley to hold a summer swim to raise money for charity and let Alice do as she wished and swim the River Wharfe."

The swim will take place from noon to 1pm and all swimmers will be asked to wear something pink to mark the fact the event is in support of cancer charities.

A sponsorship page is to be set up soon but in the meantime Mel is asking anyone interested in taking part to contact her on Facebook via the The Metcalfe's 2017 Fundraising Page, where swim updates will be posted.

She said: "As a family we have challenged ourselves to help several charities this year and from our list Alice has chosen to raise money for 'pink' events - I've explained to her a little about what the charity does and that they raise funds for the breast care unit at St James's Hospital.

"She has chosen them because pink is her favourite colour and, in her words, 'boobies need looking after'.

"She has a few friends who will be joining her in the river and doing the swim too, and Helen has asked some of the New Year's Day swimmers who have also kindly agreed.

"We really appreciate Helen organising this extra event just so Alice can take part and raise money for a great cause."