A woman who lost three-and-a-half stone thanks to support from the West Wight Sports & Community Centre staff is doing the Solent Swim to raise money for the charity tomorrow (Saturday).

Diane Lineker, 59, of Freshwater, will be one of more than 50 people taking part in the 14th Solent Swim which is the centre’s main fundraising event each year. They will leave Hurst Castle at around 7.45am, crossing the Solent to arrive in Colwell Bay from 8.10am.

It is a challenge Diane never thought she would achieve when she moved with husband, Laurence, to the area from the midlands in February last year. She explained: “We changed GP and went along to the doctor’s where we had a general check-up and blood tests.

“It was only when the tests came back that I found out I had type 2 diabetes. I was put on medication but didn’t want to take the full amount because I wanted to lose weight with a proper diet and exercise.

“We both joined the sports centre and started swimming, with Laurence coming along to support me. I found the staff there were really helpful and encouraging, so I then attended more sessions. I now do two sessions of aquafit, two sessions of swimming as well as Pilates and circuit training.

“Since I started, I have lost three-and-a-half stone and my diabetes levels are back to normal.

“The swim is a challenge and something to aim for, I’m excited but apprehensive. To qualify I have had to swim 100 lengths in less than 90 minutes and I’m determined to finish. I certainly would not have been able to do this swim without the help and support of the staff at the centre.”

The swimmers, aged between 18 and 80, will be supported by a fleet of volunteer kayakers and support boats, as well as an army of beach spotters. They aim to raise more than £20,000 between them.