Type=image;ImageID=16267;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Super Simon set for his 60th swim;TitleClass=strong;
Simon Kimberley is attempting his most daring swim yet, a 10 mile swim across the Strait of Gibraltar, this week - in aid of Dementia UK.
He said: "At the end of last year, I decided to set myself the challenge of completing 60 open water swims culminating with the Gibraltar Straits to celebrate my 60th birthday.
"Swimming the Strait of Gibraltar has been a dream of mine for the last 10 years and I thought it would be the perfect way to finish my challenge.
"It has been a really exciting but difficult year, but I have been training at WV Active Central since January and I feel I am as prepared as I'll ever be."
The Strait of Gibraltar connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and separates Spain from Morocco and Europe from Africa. Due to the strong currents and winds, the distance swum when crossing the strait is usually between 16 to 22 km, or nine to 12 nautical miles.
Simon can complete the swim between today (12 September) and Sunday (17 September), however when he does it will come down to the weather conditions on the day.
For his final swim, Simon has decided to fundraise for Dementia UK, a charity that has supported him and his family after his mother in law Betty was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and Vascular Dementia in 2012.
He added: "I decided to raise money for Dementia UK, as my mother in law has been living with Alzheimer's and Vascular Dementia since 2012 and has been in a care home for the last 4 years.
"Raising money for this deserving charity is my way of saying thanks for all the help and support they give to people living with dementia and their families."
To help Simon reach his fundraising target, you can donate through his Type=links;Linkid=10983;Title=Virgin Money page;Target=_blank;.
The Alzheimer's Society granted Wolverhampton Dementia Friendly Community Status for 2017-18 after recognising the work taking place in the City to improve services for people living with dementia, and their families and carers.
To find out more about the Wolverhampton Dementia Action Alliance please visit Type=links;Linkid=9739;Title=Dementia Action Alliance;Target=_blank; or email susan.eagle@wolverhampton.gov.uk
- released: Wednesday 12 September, 2018