There's lots to look forward to at this year's Henley Mile on 10 July. Not only is there the straight-line one mile race along the river, there's also the suits versus skins challenge and shorter swims for less experienced swimmers and youngsters. On top of that there's H2Open's Open Water Swimming Show, which is free to enter for all swimmers and their families and supporters.

This year we've also added the "Introduction to Open Water Swimming Experience". This is aimed at people who are new to open water and includes a 'classroom' briefing session where you will learn about staying safe and swimming confidently in open water followed by a short, supervised, swim in the river.

The sessions will be led by Olympic bronze medallist Cassandra Patten and expert coach Dan Bullock.

Participation in the session also includes free entry to the Open Water Swimming Show.

All in all, it will be a delightful day out by the river for all ages and whatever your level of open water experience. In particular, it will be a great opportunity to introduce your friends to the delights of open water swimming, so why not forward this email and encourage them to sign up.