In recognition of Spina Bifida Awareness week, and because Shine is one of the most worthwhile causes you could possibly support, Elaine and I have decided to realise a lifelong ambition and SWIM (the equivalent of) THE ENGLISH CHANNEL (in Bungay and Beccles Swimming Pools).

Whilst this feat alone means that we will most likely face mild congestion, old plasters and the strong possibility of getting verrucas, we felt this level of physical hardship may be insufficient to induce you to sponsor our endeavours. As such, we have decided to up the ante by completing a portion of our distance in the unheated waters of Beccles Lido. Whilst not an international shipping lane, it is a) quite cold and b) occasionally contains aggressive people training for triathlons.

The challenge is real....and most importantly by sponsoring two middle aged women to wear goggles and plough up and down a range of public swimming pools, you will help Shine to provide expert health advice, visit schools to train teachers, run family events, be on hand in hospitals to offer support and continue our campaigning for better prevention and clinical care for anyone with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.

Please give generously to an organisation that Laura is so incredibly proud to work for that she has managed to persuade Elaine (who has never had a swimming lesson in her life) to drown or learn front crawl on the journey - the world is genuinely a better place because Shine exists.