On Saturday 24^th September, I shall be undertaking a huge physical challenge by swimming around the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park, London. This will be the total distance of one mile. I have always enjoyed swimming and did quite a lot of open water swimming as a child, but, in recent years, this has been a more leisurely swim at my local Health and Fitness Club!  My (older!) cousin Beryl managed to convince me that participating in the Serpentine Swim was a jolly good idea and I initially agreed.  Reality was quick to settle in and before I knew it, my daughter and Aunt were helping me into a wetsuit which was an experience in itself!

Not only will swimming around the Serpentine Lake be a huge and wonderful personal achievement, I am also hoping that I will raise money for an excellent cause – The Salvation Army’s homelessness project.  Homelessness is an issue in every town and city across the United Kingdom and, as a daughter of Salvation Army ministers, I have witnessed how this church and charity can transform the lives of those who are far less fortunate than myself.  I remember my parents being called in the early hours of the morning to provide shelter, food and a bed for the homeless and this often included my father driving a person to a local Salvation Army hostel.

My Salvation Army Church in Nottingham is currently participating in The Big Collection.  This is an annual initiative where members of the public are invited to make a contribution to The Salvation Army and its homelessness projects.  My church along with many other Salvation Army churches, provide hot meals, food parcels, clothing, bedding and a friendly ear to the homeless. These projects would not exist if it was not for the kind donations from church members and members of the public. 

In closing, whilst training for the Serpentine Swim, my cousin, Beryl,sent me a bracelet which has a quote attached to it.  The quote says, “She believed she could and she did!”  For me, this is a personal encouragement and has helped me to believe that I can achieve.  My hope and prayer is that any money that you wish to contribute will be used as an encouragement and support to those who are without a
 home, food and love.

Thank you for taking the time to read my page and for donating to such a worthy cause. Love Lesley xxx

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