In pictures: Forth swimmers rescued from tides during annual challenge

THE youngest and oldest competitors in one of Scotland’s toughest swimming challenges were among those plucked from treacherous tides before the finish yesterday – but vowed to return next year.

They both tackled the annual Firth of Forth Swim, but, along with many other competitors, were lifted out of the water after 75 minutes because of strong currents.

A rescue operation involving the RNLI lifeboat from South Queensferry was launched when difficult weather conditions also hit the event.

Grace Nicholson, 13, from Bo’ness, said: “I can’t wait to try it again.”

Retired lecturer, Ian Lovegrove, 73, from the Wirral, Merseyside, agreed. “It was tough but I’ll be back,” he said.