What an amazing day, what an amazing swim. And we made it!

Cat, Karen, Julie, Jill, me, Hillary, Karene, Jackie, Nat, Bibby, India, Chris, Jane and Sue - 14 excited shoalies, setting off to the deep, supported by so much warmth, love and understanding from the Whole Shoal who were cheering us on today.

And the weather was kind – thanks in large part to Pip’s two-week long weather-dance – the sun shone, and the sea was flat.

We set off in a clockwise direction, protected by our amazing lifeguards Loic and the gang from Coast to Coast Water Safety.

There were whoops and laughter, there were grimaces and cramps – but most of all there were never ending smiles. All the swimmers stuck together as a shoal and checked in on one another as we swam. And there were some amazing personal journeys swimming in our shoal today – incredible courage, tenacity and inspiration. People who have stared into the face of adversity but not backed down. We left cancer on the shore today.

As we came around the island and the beach came back into view, we were greeted by a crowd on the shore cheering and waving us home.

Hugs, smiles, kissing of the sand - and a feeling of elation from all who took part. Followed by Cynthias freshly baked cake and coffee and stories retold.

This was a microcosm of what Into the Blue is all about. Support and friendship, love and respect – and a day that cancer was forgot.

If you would like to help us raise more money for this absolutely amazing organization, Into the Blue, please click on the donate now button – which will close the fundraising on the 1st October.

Thank you so much!