HEMS Clinical Lead Darren Monaghan and HEMS Paramedic James O’Callaghan will swim the North Channel between Northern Ireland and Scotland to raise vital funds for Air Ambulance NI.

They will be part of a relay team of swimmers along with Naomi Beard, Nigel Officer and Ross Parker. Together the team will swim across the arduous open-water crossing, covering 34.5km (21.4 miles) testing their endurance as they persist through cold sea temperatures which often range between 10.5 - 14 degrees at this time of year.

The team are pushing themselves to the limit by embarking on this challenge, known as one of the world’s toughest open water swims, the North Channel is famous for its icy waters, strong currents, and unpredictable conditions. However, working on-board the Air Ambulance, Darren and James see first-hand the difference this service makes to patient outcomes and are enthusiastic to fundraise to keep the Air Ambulance flying.

You can support their challenge by donating.