Jonathon's English Channel Swim for Cancer Research UK

Jonathon Hardy is raising money for Cancer Research UK

English Channel Crossing · 29 July 2026

We‘re the world‘s leading cancer charity dedicated to saving and improving lives through research. We fund research into the prevention, detection and treatment of more than 200 types of cancer through the work of over 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses.

Story

In August 2026, I’ll be standing on the shores of Dover, ready to swim 33km across the English Channel to Calais, France — a personal endurance challenge that I’ve committed to fully funding myself.

But this isn’t just about swimming.

It’s about the people we love — those we’ve lost and those still fighting.

Cancer has touched my life deeply. I’ve lost friends far too young, friends who left behind children. At the same time, I’ve seen others ring that bell and walk away from cancer with courage, strength, and hope. Right now, some of my closest family members are in the middle of their own battles — and I’m swimming for them, too.

Their resilience inspires me every day. This challenge is a tribute to that fight — and a call to action for all of us.

I’m raising money for Cancer Research UK, the world’s largest independent cancer research organisation. They do extraordinary work, but there’s still so much more to do. Every breakthrough starts with support like yours — no matter how big or small.

If you’ve been affected by cancer — or love someone who has — please consider supporting my swim and, more importantly, this vital research. Together, we can make sure more people get to win their battles.

A Channel swim, especially a solo, is most definitely a team effort. My friends and family will obviously be supporting me all. My training partners will mostly come from the amazing SwimTribe Dubai and CamSwim Club swimmers. In particular the expert coaching of Chris Bryan will push me all the way to France.

If you are wondering why a Flamingo is the mascot for this swim, just ask.

Thank you for your support.

Donation summary

Total
£571.67
+ £49.25 Gift Aid
Online
£571.67
Offline
£0.00

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