News

Channel swimmer Sunny Lowry, who became infamous for her daring two-piece bikini-style costume, has died aged 97.

Sunny, was one of the first British women to swim the English Channel and managed to get into the record books in 1933 on her third attempt at the 20-mile crossing.

Sunny's two-piece bikini-style costume led to her being berated as a `harlot' for baring her knees.

She devoted her life to the pursuit of the sport, and helping others to enjoy the water as a swimming instructor.

Born in Manchester she was a second cousin of `matchstick men' painter LS Lowry.

She was awarded the MBE for services to swimming in the north west, was president of the Channel Swimming Association for seven years and five years ago, at the age of 92, she was inducted into the International Marathon Swimming Association's Hall of Fame.