AN INSPIRATIONAL swimmer took on a gruelling fundraising challenge to raise money for a disabled swimming club that has supported him and many others.

Richard Browning swam almost 20 miles over the course of a 12-hour period at Gourock Outdoor Pool to bring in the funds for Port Glasgow Otters, a club he joined at the age of 12.

The 33-year-old had struggled to learn how to swim, despite participating in group lessons through his primary school.

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But within a year of joining the Otters, Richard was competing against his peers.

(Image: George Munro)

He told the Tele: “Being partially sighted, I found it difficult to learn how to swim when I was young.

“Group lessons were really challenging for me.

“When I joined the Otters, I got one-to-one help learning to swim.

“This made a massive difference.”

Richard completed his swim at 7:30pm on August 28, covering a phenomenal 17.5 miles, which is the furthest he has swum so far.

Since learning to swim, Richard has accomplished numerous feats, including swimming 25 kilometres in two days, crossing the River Clyde, exploring open water swimming and participating in nine 5K swimathons.

He even completed a 2.5km swim entirely in butterfly stroke, and plans to go further next year.

Family, friends, and members of the Port Glasgow Otters joined Richard on the day, helping to keep him motivated until the very end.

Many of the Otters who supported Richard also raised significant amounts of money for the club.

Richard said: “I’m so proud of everyone who came and swam. I really appreciated the support.

“They too have all done amazing with their fundraising, and it’ll help the club to continue to do the amazing work that they do.

“I’m really pleased with this. I’ve been asked if I’ll do something similar in the future. I’m not going to say no.

“I like the challenge of pushing myself, and of course, raising money to help others where I can.”

Richard’s fundraiser page has received more than £1,400 in donations.

The page will remain open until October 1. Those wishing to contribute should visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/TheOtterlyLongSwim.