Solo English Channel Swim – 14 September 2025

Support me in taking on one of the World’s Toughest Challenges: a solo swim across the English Channel.

On 14 September 2025, I’ll be attempting something truly life-changing: a solo swim across the English Channel. This 21-mile stretch of cold, choppy water between Dover and the French coast is known as the "Everest of open water swimming" and fewer people have swum the Channel than have climbed Mount Everest!

It’s a test of mental grit, physical endurance, and sheer determination – and I’ll be swimming it without a wetsuit, in accordance with official Channel Swimming Association rules.

This year is also the 150th anniversary year of the first successful English Channel swim, completed in 1875 by Captain Matthew Webb. To attempt my crossing on this anniversary feels both humbling and inspiring.

The swim can take anywhere from 12 to 18 hours, battling strong tides, jellyfish, and unpredictable weather across the busiest shipping channel in the world. Months of cold-water training, strict nutrition, and mental preparation have brought me to this point – but now I need your support to make it count.

I’m not doing this just for the challenge. I’m undertaking it to raise vital funds for four charities that are close to my heart:-

Alzheimer’s Society - My Mum, Beryl, had severe dementia. She sadly she passed away in 2020 having contracted Corona virus but it was the Alzheimer’s that had weakened her so much that she couldn’t fight it. It is too late for her to benefit personally from a cure, but any money raised helps people affected by dementia get the support they need today, as well as funds research that helps find a cure for tomorrow. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

Save the Children Fund – Mum spent many decades working tirelessly for her local SCF committee. SCF is an international organisation dedicated to helping children survive, learn, and thrive – wherever they're born. From providing emergency food and shelter in crisis zones to supporting education and healthcare in struggling communities, Save the Children is changing lives every day. https://www.savethechildren.org.uk/

Saltdean Lido Trust – I have been a trustee of the Lido for 7 years. During that time, we have seen the restoration of one of the UK’s last remaining Art Deco lidos and a much-loved community space. The restoration project has brought this iconic venue back to life – not just as a swimming pool, but as a vibrant hub for health, heritage, and local events. https://www.saltdeanlido.co.uk/

Sea Sure – as a passionate sea swimmer I am proud to support this Brighton community focused project that uses the power of the sea to support mental health and wellbeing. Through water-based activities, sea swimming, and coastal connection, SeaSure helps people build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. https://www.seasure.org.uk/

Every stroke will support these charities incredible work

Why this matters

The challenge is huge, but these causes are even greater. Together, we can mark this historic anniversary not just with endurance, but with generosity and impact.

How you can help

Donate — any amount, big or small, will make a difference.

Share — spread the word with your friends, family, and networks.

Cheer me on — your encouragement will help keep me going through the long hours in the cold water.

Thank you so much for your support — I’ll carry every one of your messages with me as I swim across to France.

Thank you for being part of the journey.

David