A BROTHER and sister from Evesham are celebrating after swimming the Cornish coastline in aid of St Richard's Hospice.

Abigail and Joseph Gisbourne raised £325 for the hospice by swimming from Padstow to Rock.

Abigail, aged 33, said : “We wanted to raise some money for the hospice, in memory of our mum’s best friend who was cared for at St Richard’s in Worcester.

"We both have such fond memories of family holidays in Cornwall and decided on the Padstow to Rock swim.

"Neither of us were prepared for just how incredibly difficult it was going to be; with storms rolling in, waves crashing down and the need to dodge jellyfish, this really was quite the challenge.”

Glynis Benton, who died in February aged 68, met Abigail and Joseph’s mum, Lesley Gisbourne, at a chance meeting at a local bus stop in 1976 and the pair remained firm friends for the next 42 years.

When Mrs Benton – also from Evesham – was referred for hospice care her daughter Jacqueline had already booked her wedding.

Abigail and Joseph’s Mum Mrs Gisbourne said : “The hospice really went above and beyond in their care of Glynis.

"They even arranged for her to join her daughter on her wedding day.

"They drove Glynis and I to the venue in Kidderminster, unbeknown to Jacqueline, in the hospice minibus which was decked out with ribbons.

"Thanks to the hospice, Jacqueline and her husband Dave now have beautiful memories of being able to share their wonderful wedding day with Glynis.”

The brother and sister duo completed the swim in 27 and 26 minutes respectively.

Joe, aged 22, said : “This was without doubt the stupidest thing I have ever signed up for!

"My training was rather sporadic as every time I was planning on training England were playing in the World Cup.

"However, it was a thoroughly amazing experience and we are both so proud of what we did and how much money we raised for the hospice who cared so lovingly for our late godmother and Auntie Glynis who really meant the world to our mum.”

Jodi Brandwood, fundraiser at St Richard’s Hospice, said : “We are extremely impressed with Abi and Joe’s swim and would like to thank them wholeheartedly for their support and dedication.

"Glynis continues to hold a very special place in their hearts which is wonderful; she would have been very proud of their achievements.”