Physio, 52, crowned world ice swimming champion

Helen Hislop secured gold at the International Ice Swimming Association World Championships

A physiotherapist from Merseyside who has been crowned a world ice swimming champion has joked that anyone tempted to take up outdoor swimming should "perhaps start in summer".

Helen Hislop, 52, won the 1000m freestyle title in her age category at the International Ice Swimming Association World Championships, which were held among the snow-capped mountains of Molveno in Italy.

While Ms Hislop, from Raby Mere in Wirral, competed in an outdoor pool in the freezing conditions, lucky spectators were wrapped up in woolly hats and big coats.

Ms Hislop, who works at Wirral University Teaching Hospital in Upton, said she was "extremely nervous" before the championships, admitting she had never previously swum in water below 2C.

Onlookers wrap up in big coats and hats while Helen Hislop swims in the icy waters

"It hasn't really sunk in yet, but I'm incredibly proud and grateful for the opportunity to represent my country," Ms Hislop said.

She said she had prioritised "taking it steady, swimming my own race, and staying in control".

Ms Hislop, who also won a silver medal in the 500m event, qualified for the World Championships after competing in the British championships in December.

The athlete has a long and enviable record in swimming, having successfully crossed the English Channel in 2021.

She went on to attempt the much colder North Channel in 2024, falling just 2.5 miles (4km) short due to the freezing conditions.

Ms Hislop then underwent additional cold water acclimatisation training before the World Championships.

She said it had been a privilege to compete as part of the "supportive and encouraging" British team and to see inspirational swimmers from around the world.

Helen Hislop said she motivated herself at the World Championships by remembering all of the hard training she had done beforehand

'Helps with mood'

With cold water swimming becoming more popular in recent years, Ms Hislop cautioned that it was "important to know your limits and get out before feeling too cold".

"After-drop, when your body continues to cool even after leaving the water, can occur up to 20 minutes later, so dressing warmly and gradually warming up is vital," she added.

She said outdoor swimming "can really help with mood, mental health, and overall well-being".

Ms Hislop urged anyone considering taking it up to do so gradually, however, and to always ensure they do so in safe locations, with experienced people, and "perhaps starting in summer!"

"There's a great sense of accomplishment and wellbeing in overcoming such challenges," she added.