I didn’t learn to swim until my late twenties. While I enjoyed swimming, it wasn’t until Rob introduced me to open water swimming at Frensham Ponds, and Katie suggested a 4:30am sunrise swim on the summer solstice, that I truly fell in love with it.

Swimming has given me the confidence to take on other water sports, such as kayaking, and to challenge myself by competing in events including the Henley Mile Swim and a women-only quadrathlon. It has sparked a passion for open water swimming that continues to grow.

What I love most about open water swimming is the different sensory experiences it offers. I love the feeling of freedom when I’m in the water, the opportunity to reconnect with myself, and the chance to be immersed in nature.

This year, I’m excited to team up with #ChesterFrosties to take part in the Level Water 24-hour Relay Swim Challenge. It will be a challenge, but one that we’re taking on for a very important cause.

Swimming is a life skill, and every child should have the opportunity to learn it. Level Water helps children with disabilities access swimming lessons and develop essential water safety skills. These lessons not only support physical development but also build confidence, independence, and social and emotional wellbeing through developing a mindset of optimism and positivity, of going for it and seeing what’s possible in life.

That’s why I’m proud to be supporting Level Water. Every donation, no matter how small, will help more children gain access to the life-changing benefits of swimming.

Thank you for your support.