The Challenge

Windermere is England's longest natural lake and one of the UK's most iconic open-water swimming locations. Matt is taking on the full 10.5-mile crossing, swimming from north to south using only breaststroke.

Widely regarded as a benchmark challenge within the marathon swimming community, the route demands immense physical and mental endurance. Every mile, every stroke and every hour in the water will be completed in support of Alzheimer's Research UK and in honour of Matt's mum.

Matt's Story

I'm taking on the challenge of swimming Windermere using only breaststroke in support of Alzheimer's Research UK.

I'm doing this for my mum, who is living with Alzheimer's disease.

My mum is everything to me. She is kind, funny, full of life and the person who always encouraged me to believe in myself and never give up. Seeing the impact Alzheimer's has had on her and our family has been heartbreaking.

My dad is also living in a care home following a stroke, and as an only child in my early thirties, I've seen first-hand how devastating these conditions can be for the people you love most.

That's why I want to do something positive. By taking on this challenge, I hope to raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease and support the vital research that could one day lead to better treatments and ultimately a cure.

Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity, funding groundbreaking research to change the future for people affected by dementia.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help bring hope to families like mine.