I swam yesterday at 9.30am in water that was quite pleasant at 16c. My time for a mile was 34 minutes which, given my inability to swim in a straight line and dodging back markers, isn't too shabby.  No one warns you about getting out; this where you feel as though you are really squiffy to the extent you cant walk straight.  I was asked to put a foot on a chair to remove the timing chip from my ankle which was politely refused as I needed both feet on terra firma just to remain upright.  Thank you to all those whose tremendous generosity is demonstrated below and to all those of you yet to donate to such a worthy cause.

 

Well done for making it this far and many thanks.  This is on many levels a first for me as I wasn't a swimmer and my open water experience is limited to warm seas on hot days. However, an opportunity to get into water, which is about 13c (but after the recent winter and rainfall is probably significantly less and I loathe cold water), was not to be lightly passed up - actually this only dawned on me after I had entered; no flies on me .  The Army Benevolent Fund I support as I deal with soldiers who have lost their lives and at whose bravery I marvel and whose courage is awe inspiring.  So please dig deep and help these fellows who have already given so much to preserve our freedoms and safety.

I have decided not to post a picture of myself in a wetsuit (if you wish to picture this, think Darth Tellytubbie) as I would like you to donate. If you sponsor me enough, I promise not to send a photo to you after the event.   A huge thank you to anyone who supports me in this venture.  I have left the next paragraph in to reassure you that this site is kosher. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.