My personal challenge this year, while I am just about still physically fit and able enough, is to achieve the Triple Crown Lake Swims, which means swimming the lengths of Coniston - 6.5 miles, Ullswater - 7,.5 miles and Windermere - 11 miles- this year.

Whilst doing this I am raising money so children with disabilities can enjoy the water as much as I do. Level Water uses the power of swimming to improve lives for children with disabilities. Knowing the joy that I, my family and friends get from being in the water, I am hoping that my personal challenge will enable many more young people to learn to swim and fall in love with the water.

Swimming these days is so much more than one stroke after another. Where life is challenging it offers the benefits of community, sense of freedom and a moment of peace and calm away from everyday life.

Thank you so much for your support which will motivate me every mile of the way and get many children swimming and loving the water as much as we do!