So last year I got slightly bitten by the open-water swimming bug and took part in what I thought were a few crazy challenges.  Having been one who, I am ashamed to say, thought anyone swimming 1k was quite frankly bonkers, it turns out that it wasn't that tricky...and in fact a few more kms was possible.  So I am proud to affirm that I am totally bonkers; not a surprise for many!

This year's challenge for me will be Shepperton 24 Hour Relay as part of team Just Keep Swimming, The Bantham 6km Swoosh, Coniston 5.25 mile Lake end to end, Ullswater 7.5 mile end to end and then the sting in the tail being Windermere 10.5 mile (yes I am sheeting myself)...amongst a few others.  All of these are Level Water events and I can only hope that the water is level on the day...I don't like it slappy!

Please please please take pity on this silly old fool and put a few squid in the direction of this wonderful charity that does it absolute best to giving swimming opportunities to some that may never have the chance to try under different circumstances.  Everybody should have the chance to learn to swim as it is a key life skill, not just a sporting pastime.

Needless to say that I will update you (bore you silly) on a regular basis and I am afraid to say that I will be a frightful sight in most of those updates...well I am a pOrca!

and now the standard text...

I'm swimming the length of 3 English lakes this summer to help more children like Anzah. Anzah has cerebellum ataxia which means she has a physical development delay. Before Level Water lessons she had a severe phobia of the water. She didn't even like taking a bath. Through our lessons she has slowly gained confidence in herself, in her condition and understands how to adapt to the water. When she floats and realises she's doing it by herself she screams and cheers with joy.For Anzah, it's not about distance. It's about being in control. Feeling confident and being able to feel the joy that water can give.A swimming lesson for a child with disabilities costs just £15. But that £15 might just change their life. See how many lessons you can fund by asking people to donate just £15 to your challenge.