I am swimming from Rock to Padstow with my son William, to raise money for the fantastic Marie Curie charity.  Marie Curie provides care and support for people living with any terminal illness across the UK. Their nurses work night and day in peoples homes and hospices offering specialist care in times of need. They also provide emotional support and practical information, matching families with trained volunteers.

Having done the wonderful event two years with my husband Simon in appalling conditions, we decided to give the event another go .  Unfortunately Simon has had to pull out this year, suspicions abound that this withdrawal relates to his appalling swimming style, albeit he has recently been muttering something about a fractured scapula.

Training has been tough: William competing twice weekly sessions with the Sidmouth Surf Life Saving club, whereas I have battled the waves (and potential sewage discharge!) throughout the year in the sea at Sidmouth.