You know how it is. You're having lunch with friends when one of them mentions that they have just swum the Solent for charity and your partner says "you could do that, couldn't you?". Fuelled by a few pints of Dark Star's finest of course I said "yes".

 

So I am going to swim the Solent on Sunday 20 July 2014 in aid of Isle of Wight Samaritans. Samaritans phone lines are run on a national basis so that calls have the best chance of being answered. When one branch is closed the calls are routed to another one so, to some extent, they act as one organisation, although each branch has to raise its own funds.

 

The distance is about a mile and a quarter but the tides are very strong, so we are setting out from Hurst Castle on the mainland at 5.20 am when the tide is slack and all sensible people are tucked up in bed, and will get to Colwell Bay on the Island under an hour later. Hopefully! The Freshwater Bay lifeboats, kayaks and rigid inflatable boats will accompany us and we will be served a hot breakfast when we get there.

 

Isle of Wight Samaritans is a great cause. It supports people who are struggling to cope, including those who are suicidal, and is run entirely by volunteers. The charity has to find all its own funding and the Solent swim is its main annual fundraising event, without which they would struggle to stay afloat! In 2014 there will be 60 swimmers to celebrate 60 years of Samaritans' listening and between us we aim to raise £60,000 … that means my target is £1000 although it wouldn't hurt to raise a bit more than that.

 

Donating through JustGiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me. Isle of Wight Samaritans get your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, JustGiving sorts out the Gift Aid. So please sponsor me now! Many thanks.