Halstead: Swimmers to take on the Channel

From the archive, first published Thursday 26th Apr 2007.

A team of swimmers are preparing to take on their toughest channel yet - to swim the English Channel.

Halstead Amateur Swimming Club is taking on the challenge of crossing the Channel.

The swimmers, aged between 13 and 30, plan to swim the Channel in relay, with each doing a mile before swapping with a team-mate.

Five people from the club will take part in the challenge, with one reserve.

Coach Edward Duncombe said: "Swimming in the sea is totally different from in a pool, there is the tide, current and weather to contend with, as well as having to stop for ships, because we have to cross several shipping lanes to complete the swim."

Mr Duncombe has done the Channel swim himself in a team, which included his brother, Roger, who will also be coaching.

To sponsor the team, call Mr Duncombe on 07779 265728.