Lifeguards from Ryde and Sandown were joined by three colleagues from West Wittering, who trained with the Ryde team, and a swimmer from Ryde Swimming Club for the charity challenge from Gosport to Ryde on Saturday. The swim was organised to raise funds for Ryde Beach Lifeguards, an independent lifeguard service and registered charity. The event was due to start earlier but was delayed until 1pm after a vessel caught fire off Gilkicker Fort, as reported by The Echo. Safety cover was provided by Ventnor Bay Charters, Griffin Marine Services, Mr Bump, two beach lifeguard jet skis and individual kayakers. Funds raised will go towards buying new lifesaving equipment for the service.