Water campaigner forced to quit world record attempt

Lindsey Cole was aiming to beat the current world record of 50km (31 miles), which was swum in 15 hours

A woman who campaigns for cleaner waterways was forced to quit a world record attempt swim after experiencing "excruciating" hip pain.

Lindsey Cole, 42, from Bristol, was aiming to beat the current Guinness World Record of 50km (31 miles) for the longest distance swum using a monofin at West Country Water Park on Saturday. Typically used in underwater sports, a monofin is a type of single fin worn on the feet.

Beginning her swim at 05:30 BST, Ms Lindsey was due to finish at about 20:00, but ended at 11:45 when the pain became too much and cold set in.

Ms Cole said she had never experienced such "excruciating pain" before and had to "engage with it every kick".

"The more I slowed down the more the cold set in," she added.

Ms Cole had previously told the BBC the "incredibly difficult" challenge was all about "inspiring people to fall in love with their local river".

She added that she was "blown away by the support of friends who came down" to support her.

Money raised from the attempt will go to Surfers Against Sewage, Bristol mental and wellbeing charity Open Minds Active and the Flying Seagull Project, which uses play to entertain children in refugee camps.

A monofin is typically used in underwater sports