SWIMMERS faced tough conditions in the annual British Heart Foundation Weymouth Bay Swim.

The traditional, bracing mile-long swim became a gruelling physical challenge for many taking part.

Dozens of people, including children and their parents, were forced to turn back after a few minutes because they could not cope with the swell.

Safety boats and members of Weymouth Canoe Lifeguards, providing cover in their rescue kayaks, ensured people got to the shore safely.

Despite the choppy seas, Bridport teenager and accomplished swimmer Tom Crew was first past the finish line in an impressive 28 minutes.

Tom, 17, a member of the South Dorset Tornadoes and part of the GB biathle squad, said: “It was difficult because the high waves made it hard to see the buoys. There was brilliant safety cover though so everyone was safe.”

Organisers said more than 500 people signed up for the swim, now in its sixth year.

Participants included some children – under-16s are allowed to take part as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Around £27,000 was raised for the charity at the 2009 event and it is hoped that figure will be topped this year.

The swim is not a race but rather a fun activity to support charity and to promote healthy lifestyles. The route was changed this year so instead of the traditional linear route across the bay, participants dived in at the Pavilion end of the beach and followed a rectangular course.

Organisers said they were happy to let the swim go ahead on Sunday morning despite the conditions.

BHF event organiser Hannah Townsend said: “It was amazing, a really great day. Conditions were challenging and it was quite a struggle for some people but they should be happy with their achievements.

“A few people did turn around because they felt they couldn’t do it. The waves were quite big.”

She added: “If we were unhappy with the conditions we wouldn’t have let it go ahead.”