I have entered the fundraising flotilla as a SWIMMER, supporting The Alde & Ore Estuary Trust. I have done this swim once before in 2019. The route is just under 5 miles (8 KM) in open water. Your support will help to improve the flood defences around the estuary.

Flood defences were first built in the late Middle Ages The river walls were last rebuilt after the 1953 floods. The increase in sea levels, extreme weather events, and the natural deterioration of the walls highlights the urgent need to upgrade our defences against a catastrophic flood.

Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the estuary, rich in flora and fauna, is home to spoonbills, water voles, avocets and many other (protected) species.

Within the flood cells are local communities and businesses, over 1,000 buildings, more than 100km of public and permissive paths, 3,335 hectares of farmland, and freshwater aquifers servicing a further 7,800 acres.

Each winter the Alde and Ore experiences storm surges and carries the risk of serious damage from flooding. I would be grateful if you could support and sponsor me to assist in preserving this estuary for future generations.