We’re a group of swimmers from the Parliament Hill Lido in North London, on the edge of Hampstead Heath. We are planning to swim the English Channel together in July 2021 to raise money for The Alexa Trust. 

I was born on the other side of the world in Australia, but since a young age I was always captivated by the stories of heroic swimmers who managed to get across this incredibly deep and fast moving Channel that separates England and France. I never thought it would become a reality, but when I was approached in the first Covid lockdown of 2020 by my fellow Parliament Hill Lidophiles, I couldn't say no! 

The Alexa Trust was set up in memory of Alexa James who spent time in Neonatal care. Her father Howard James is a twice world record English Channel swimmer and our mentor who's guiding us through this immense challenge. 

It's not often that you know the real people and stories behind the Charity you're supporting, but in this case I have seen firsthand how much Howard and his family want to help people who may also be facing the difficulty of having their child in Neonatal care. The funds raised are to support the parents during such a difficult time. 

Swimming the deep and unpredictable English channel, even in a relay is not easy, but we’re keen to get to France with smiles on our faces and as few jelly stings as possible.

I haven't been able to train as much as possible due to Covid and multiple lockdowns, so I am quite nervous about  being ready. But I hope with your support I'll be able to tap into my resilience and reach France with the 5 incredible people I have the pleasure to meet through my Lido "swamily".