Loch Ness challenge for Sport Relief

If you’re on the lookout for Nessie this weekend, you’re likely to spot another celebrity in the water. Popular television presenter Alex Jones, of BBC's The One Show, is planning to brave the cold and swim across Loch Ness.

She is teaming up with four inspirational mums as they take on five days of gruelling challenges around the UK for Sport Relief (you can find out more and make a donation here).

Along with Amal, from London, Debbie and Jodi, from Bristol, and Leigh, from Glasgow, the “Mother of all Challenges” will see Alex being pushed to her limits starting here on Sunday, March 11th. Their awesome tasks also include coastal running and caving in Wales and cycling through the Lake District.

If you can manage along, why not take a cruise with us this weekend and cheer on the ladies as they start the challenge?

Another story making waves recently was that two Highland beauty spots have been named in the top 15 UK attractions outside of London.

Loch Ness came in at number 10 in a survey based on Instagram posts, while Eilean Donan Castle, just 50 miles west of us here, was at number 5.

Our local Member of Parliament, Kate Forbes MSP, said: “This proves that the rest of the world agrees with us that the Highlands are stunningly beautiful.”

Eileen Donan Castle

We also received news that we will all soon be cashing in with the Loch Monster and Urquhart Castle! The Royal Mint announced they are being featured on the “L” of a new alphabetical collection of 10 pence pieces.

Under the heading “Quintessentially British A to Z” the Royal Mint website has this:

“The elusive Loch Ness Monster is next on our list. A highland sighting that’s not to be missed! Nothing gets the mind wondering as much as traditional British folklore. And the top of all the mythical beasts is the Loch Ness Monster." 

Loch Ness Mint

“Reportedly a huge monster which mauls and drags its prey to the depths of Loch Ness, it has been described by the lucky few to set eyes on it as ‘the nearest approach to a dragon I have ever seen in my life’.”

We’re not so sure about that tale, but it’s great that two of our main attractions have been recognised in this way.