3 days ago
Taunton Prep School pupils complete relay swim across English Channel
A team of Somerset schoolchildren has completed a 21-mile relay swim across the English Channel.
Nine pupils and four staff from Taunton Prep School took on the challenge on Tuesday, August 12 to raise funds for Scotty's Little Soldiers, a charity supporting children who have lost a parent who served in the British Armed Forces.
Ed Burnett, headmaster of Taunton Prep School, said: "The English Channel is known as the 'Everest of swimming' and the mindset, ambition, and teamwork needed to complete it requires something special.
"As our 13-year-old pupils have shown over the last two years, hard work and commitment builds the courage to succeed.
"I am very proud of them for the work they have put in, and I am delighted that they have completed their Everest."
The pupils have raised more than £7,250 so far, with donations still coming in.
They are being welcomed at
The school has now led nine groups across the Channel, involving more than 50 pupils and staff and raising over £75,000 for charity.
This year's team, named Channel Titans V, began training for the swim two years ago when they were just 10 and 11 years old.
They trained in the school pool, at Wiveliscombe's outdoor pool, and in open water along the Somerset and Devon coasts during both day and night.
The swimmers were split into two teams for the 21-mile relay.
The Red Team completed the crossing in 15 hours and 28 minutes, while the Pink Team finished in 14 hours and 43 minutes.
Each pupil swam for an hour at a time, with all completing two swims and some taking on a third.
Despite starting as beginners, the children built up the stamina and skills needed to take on the challenge, facing blooms of jellyfish and curious dolphins along the way.
Hamish McCarthy, head of geography and lead coach of the long-distance swimming club, supported the pupils throughout their training.
The young swimmers regularly compete in long-distance events around the UK and have taken part in swims such as the Gwineas and St Michael's Mount.
Many plan to continue open-water swimming during their time at Taunton School.
Scotty's Little Soldiers aims to support 1,000 bereaved military children by 2030 through programmes focused on well-being, education, and personal development.
