Former Harrogate student inspired to swim English Channel in a battle against 'cruel' disease

Ex-Ashville College pupil Richard Boyle will be hoping for fine weather and calm seas as he makes his first bid to swim the English Channel, to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK and the Alzheimer’s Society.

Departing from Samphire Hoe, in Dover, on Wednesday, September 23, the former rugby player will attempt to make the 35km crossing to Cap Gris Ne in approximately 12 hours.

He will be accompanied on his journey by a support boat and the ‘rules’ say he cannot wear a wetsuit, just a normal bathing costume.

Despite his training being severely hampered by the closure of swimming baths due to the coronavirus lockdown, Richard had to find suitable outdoor stretches of water, where he could build up his stamina and experience contending with currents, waves and at times near freezing conditions.

And just a few weeks ago his training paid off when he successfully completed an 18km swim in six hours.

While at Ashville, Richard’s rugby training regime included regular swimming sessions, but a few years ago he was forced to quit the sport due to a back injury.

With his grandfather suffering from Alzheimer’s, and his godfather from Parkinson’s, he decided he wanted to raise money for charities that are seeking to find cures and help support those with the diseases, and took the plunge to swim the English Channel!

Richard has set up a Virgin Money Giving page for sponsorship, and with a month to go is three-quarters of the way to achieving his £12,000 target.

Richard said: “Due to a back injury, quitting rugby was a difficult but necessary choice.

"I loved the routine, comradery and competitiveness, and giving it up has been tough, mentally and physically.

“Taking up swimming has helped plugged that gap, so I have signed up to swim the English Channel in September, which is one of the toughest open water swims going.

“Parkinson's and Alzheimer’s are two diseases which have touched my family.

"Both conditions are cruel and unrelenting. They strip those closest to you of characteristics which make them the person you know.

“I feel passionate about raising money to support them, and in doing so we will raise money to find a cure, help the people living with the illnesses, and also support their family and friends.”

Richard’s fundraising page can be found at: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RBchannelswim

For more information about Ashville College, visit www.ashville.co.uk or call 01423 566358.

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