Off the back of a few years of bodybuilding, I thought it would be a good time to switch onto a new challenge, one which my 12 year old self would be proud of: a solo English Channel Swim.

Right now, the swim itself seems quite daunting. More people have reached the summit of Everest than swum the channel successfully (about 10k vs 2k) but still going to give it go!

The shortest crossing point, the Straight of Dover, is 21 miles (34km) and is swum using a normal swimsuit only (Budgy Smugglers at the ready), in water temperatures of between 14-18 degrees Celsius. It is realistically going to take between 13 and 20 hours to complete, hence the hefty training and fundraising period of 2 years.

Alongside the icy water temperatures, the swim has you fighting intense currents where you might stay in the same place for hours or even get pushed backwards as well as navigating one of the busiest shipping channels in the world with hundreds of vessels crossing daily. There is also a matter of what else is in the water... Jellyfish are the only real concern but the channel is home to a few shark species like the Shortfin Mako and Blue Shark but it is very unlikely to encounter them. Best not watch Jaws beforehand though!

This is no normal challenge and whilst there will be a sense of fulfilment IF I successfully get across, a more important objective here is to support the Blue Cross. The Blue Cross is a fantastic charity that provides aid in a range of manners from veterinary services through to training and bereavement support so are all encompassing for pets, their owners and prospective owners. Any small donations to chip away at the 5k target will be immensely appreciated!