It spans 22 miles/35 km, the temperature is 15-16 degrees Centigrade, and it's the busiest shipping lane in the world...it can only be the English Channel, and I will be attempting to swim across it at the end of July. I'd like to say the idea spawned from an uncharactersitic moment of insanity, but those of you who know me probably think it's very much in character.

To pre-empt  the usual questions: no, I won't be wearing a wetsuit; no, I'm not allowed to touch the boat or anything else until I finish, so I have to eat/drink whilst treading water; I can't really guess how long it will take (or even if I'll complete it) as everything depends on the conditions on the day; and yes, I do know that there is a perfectly good ferry service!

I'm raising money for a very worthy cause - Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity (GOSHCC), where my mother spent some time as a very young baby. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me as GOSHCC will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Please dig deep, and cross your fingers for good weather and an unusually warm gulf stream in July!

Many thanks for your support.