Charity swim reels in £1,300

Andy Stockdale, a former professional diver, and diving instructor brother Ian, are no strangers to choppy waters. They took on the challenging one mile sea swim for Macmillan Cancer Support after the annual Great London Swim - due to be held on August 30 - was cancelled at the last minute due to water contamination.

Andy, who had surgery for prostrate cancer last May, said both he and his brother were determined to find a way to do the swim and raise funds for the cancer charity. He said: “We contacted all our sponsors and they were all were very supportive with the change of venue.”

Andy and Ian swam from Cooden Beach up the coastline towards Bexhill completing a one mile swim in choppy sea conditions in 48 minutes and raised over £1300. Andy said he felt elated to have completed the challenge. “I wanted to show the kids what you can achieve when the going gets tough. I was a bit tired after the swim but it felt massively good. Many thanks to all our sponsors.”