Two Edinburgh women take to the wild waters across April to raise money for Surfers Against Sewage

Two Edinburgh women are raising money for Surfers Against Sewage by getting into the water everyday, come rain or shine, throughout April in the Capital.

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The duo have been dubbed the ‘Wee Wandering Scots’ and have so far raised £700 with the aim of raising even more before the fundraiser closes in early May.

Kim Travers 22 and Eloise Cassels 21, chose Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) as Kim currently volunteers as part of their regional rep team and the pair value the charities work in protecting the oceans and their natural environment.

The Wee Wandering Scots say that devastating statistics have revealed that everyday approximately eight million pieces of plastic pollution find their way into our oceans.

And that if we do not take action now, then by 2050 the ocean could face having more plastic than fish (in weight).

As part of the challenge the pair have had to enter the water everyday for a swim, paddle board or surf and have also been devoted to carrying out a beach clean up at every time they take a dip at each location.

Kim said: “We predominantly used Wardie Bay and the beach at Dalmeny as well as having the odd visit to the reservoirs up the Pentlands. Our motivation really came from seeing wild swimmers to the waters over lockdown and it inspired us. So we decided that we would take to the water everyday for the entirety of April and might as well raise some money as we do it.

The Wee Wandering Scots

“Friends and family have all come out to support us and help with the beach clean ups which has been fantastic and we are extremely grateful to everyone for supporting such a great cause. I hope this challenge can help raise the profile of Surfers Against Sewage in Scotland.”

But it was not all plain sailing for the pair as Kim unfortunately contributed to the plastic in the ocean when she dropped her iPhone into the sea after trying to snap Eloise in action when surfing.

Both had spoken of issues relating to motivation when the weather was less than ideal but said that they kept each other going and the minute they ended up in the water, it felt worth it.

Eloise added: “I definitely got a confidence boost and know that I could put myself into this position. I overcame all my fears of the water and felt a deeper connection after going into the water.

Surfers against sewage

““It is wonderful for clearing the head and we did a bit of research on the ‘blue mind’ where you get a release of endorphins whenever you enter the water. The money raised will go towards more beach clean ups and educational outreach programmes for Surfers Against Sewage. We also hope that our challenge has motivated others to do beach clean ups or wild swims.

“Of course we thank everyone who has donated and urge anyone wishing to donate to visit our JustGiving.”

To explore the challenge visit @weewanderingscots on Instagram where daily updates have been posted and to donate to the campaign follow this link.

A message from the Editor:

Kim Travers, 22 and Eloise Cassels, 21.

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