Grimsby Friends Prepare for English Channel Swim to Aid Homeless Charity

A group of friends from Grimsby, known as the Backstroke Boys, is gearing up for a challenging relay swim across the English Channel this summer to raise funds for the homelessness charity Harbour Place. The team consists of captain Stuart Morgan, Mal Pearce, Neil Parker, Tom Washington, and Rich Scott, and they plan to tackle the swim on July 1, 2024.

The Backstroke Boys have set an ambitious fundraising target of £6,000, which represents the annual cost of providing breakfasts for individuals in need in Grimsby. Rich Scott remarked, “This is how much they spend on breakfasts for everyone that needs them in Grimsby in a typical year.” To date, they have launched a JustGiving appeal and already secured £600 in donations.

Training and Preparation for the Challenge

The team is currently immersed in rigorous training, often found swimming at Grimsby Docks as well as indoor pools for warmer conditions. They are also inspired by the legacy of legendary Channel swimmer Brenda Fisher, who once taught Mal Pearce and is commemorated with a blue plaque near their training location.

“We have adopted the club colours of Grimsby Santa Marina, where three of us used to swim,” Rich added. The challenge of swimming the English Channel, often referred to as the “Everest of swimming,” entails navigating strong tides and swimming in darkness, as one member of the team will always be in the water during the relay.

The Backstroke Boys plan to swim under the regulations of the Channel Swimming & Piloting Federation, which prohibits wetsuits. They will only wear trunks, a hat, and goggles, with lights attached for visibility.

Seeking Support from the Community

The total cost for the swim, which includes boat and crew expenses, is estimated at around £5,000. Although the team is covering these costs personally, they are actively seeking corporate sponsorship to support their efforts. So far, they have received backing from the Lovelle Estate Agency, but they hope to attract additional sponsors.

In exchange for sponsorship, the Backstroke Boys plan to feature company logos and branding on their social media platforms, creating a mutually beneficial partnership.

For those interested in supporting their cause, the Backstroke Boys’ JustGiving page provides an avenue for donations. Updates regarding their training and progress can also be found on their Facebook page, where the team shares their journey leading up to this significant swim. With their dedication and community support, the Backstroke Boys are committed to making a positive impact through their efforts.