Diving into the world of wild swimming – such a popular activity not only here on the West Dorset coast but all over the country – are two writers with a shared passion.

Emma Simpson and Vassos Alexander are both wild swimmers and have written two different books, with the tremendous sense of community and inspirational stories at their heart.

Breaking Waves: Discovery, Healing and Inspiration in Open Water is Emma’s uplifting memoir, her writing debut, about healing wounds, reclaiming a voice and discovering sisterhood. Formerly an air traffic controller, she discovered how transformational cold-water swimming was for her health, wellbeing and sense of connection with the world.

In Swimmingly: Adventures in Water, sports presenter Vassos finds magic in every stroke, while at the same time discussing issues of water quality and the need to experience our bodies of water safely.

Vassos co-hosts The Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Virgin Radio and has covered every sporting event imaginable, from Olympic Games to World Cups. He is the author of three bestselling books, including Don’t Stop Me Now and Running Up That Hill. Vassos has an ice bath in his London garden.

The two of them will be in conversation with Lucy Brazier at Bridport Arts Centre on Thursday 6 November at 7pm.

Tickets from Bridport Tourist Information Centre, 01308 424901.