This Sunday (28 September 2025) I will be attempting to swim 10km to raise funds for The Rivers Trust. The swim will take place across two rivers; the first 5km will be in the River Thames from Bourne End/Cookham down to Maidenhead, and (after a short walk) the second 5km will go from the top of the Jubilee River in Maidenhead down to Dorney, near Eton. The swim will take approximately 3 hours, in water at a relatively refreshing temperature of around 13-14C.

I would welcome any support you can provide for The Rivers Trust, one of our UK fundraising charity partners. Since 2001, The Rivers Trust aim has been to protect, promote and enhance our freshwater ecosystems for people and wildlife. With the support of over 60 member trusts across the UK and Ireland, they work on the ground to embed a sustainable approach to managing our rivers.

There has been increased public awareness of the health of our rivers and waterways in recent years. As a keen open water swimmer, I am passionate about improving and preserving the river environment, and protecting these crucial ecosystems. Despite the well-publicised abuses that our rivers suffer, they are remarkably resilient and are capable of regenerating with managed interventions and investment.