I'm the one on the left in the picture and Jackie (middle) and Sarah (right) are 2 of the ladies that I usually swim with at Redricks Lakes in Sawbridgeworth. I started open water swimming a couple of years ago and really enjoy the freedom of swimming in a lake, a river, or ideally in the sea.  The latter is my 'happy place'. I originally started open water swimming because Sarah convinced me it was a good idea and something I really should try. I'm so glad she did as being able to swim regularly in the lake helps with fitness but is also a good way to de-stress. 

Sarah also convinced me to sign up for the Bantham Swoosh. This is a 6km swim in an estuary in Devon on Saturday 8th July and will be quite a challenge for me as all those who know me know that I'm a bit scared of fish - yes, I know I go swimming regularly in a lake, but I've managed to convince myself it is fish-free and I purposefully never look down so that I don't see them!

I'm swimming the Bantham Swoosh to fundraise so there are more bespoke swimming lessons for children with disabilities across the UK this year. These are swimming lessons that simply wouldn't exist without the efforts of people like you. Hopefully by doing this, more people will be able to experience the joys of swimming and the freedom it can bring. 

By donating, you are giving these children the opportunity to learn to swim, develop emotional and social confidence and create a lifelong love of the water. Summer 2022 saw some of the children Level Water have taught to swim took part in the Mini Swoosh, swimming the last km of a main event in Devon. This was an incredible experience for them and something they never would've achieved if it wasn't for people like you donating. Completing an outdoor swim is a fabulous culmination of their lessons - which you are helping us to provide.