Epic swim challenge helps turn the tide on reducing marine pollution in Torbay

A local man has completed an extraordinary aquatic adventure around the Bay to help bring environmental education to all Torbay primary schools.

Brixham’s JP Passmore swam a 20km solo swim from Hope’s Nose in Torquay to Berry Head, finishing at Breakwater Beach in Brixham. The swim raised over £2,500 for The Cove Discovery Project CIC’s education programme and helped to collect water samples along the way.

The Cove Discovery Project is a Brixham based community interest company, focused on marine conservation, education and community projects.

The funds raised from this incredible event will directly support schools programmes, where the Cove Project brings Torbay’s coastal wildlife and habitats to life for young minds through dynamic presentations, engaging workshops, and unforgettable field trips.

A highlight of their offerings is the 'Beach Lab,' a hands-on science-based outdoor activity that never fails to ignite curiosity and excitement in children.

JP Passmore is Brixham born and bred, a family man living within the local community. Swimming from an early age, he learnt to swim at Brixham Swimming Club (now Admiral Swimming Centre), on Higher Ranscombe Road.

JP continued his passion for swimming, but it was not until later in life he turned to open water swimming. Venturing into open water sea swimming in 2020 JP found a new passion for the sport and embarked on a charity swim in 2022, swimming the Bay over two days with a group raising funds for Torbay Lifeboat. It was this swim that lay the groundwork for the solo swim.

The swim took JP about six hours, two hours faster than anticipated. Throughout the swim, JP took water samples every kilometre which were then analysed for microplastics. Unfortunately, the very first sample tested found microplastics, highlighting the urgent issue of pollution in our seas.

Chris Thomas from the Cove Discovery Project said: "On behalf of The Cove Discovery Project We would like to thank JP for taking on this challenge to raise funds for our schools programmes. The generous amount raised will enable us to reach more children, introducing exciting & engaging activities, giving them the opportunity to learn more about our coastal marine life & habitats".

He added: “We believe that by connecting children with the wild—allowing them to experience nature in person—will not only enhance their environmental education but also promote health, well-being, and a lasting appreciation for the world around them. By fostering this deep, personal connection with nature, we aim to nurture the next generation of environmental stewards, dedicated to protecting our coastlines and wild spaces for the future.”