Godmanchester woman completes solo swim across English Channel using only arms

Sophie Etheridge has completed the challenge in around 29 hours

The touch of water is painful on Mrs Etheridge's legs
Author: Victoria HornagoldPublished 23rd Aug 2023

A woman from Godmanchester has completed a swim across the English Channel, using only her arms.

Mrs Etheridge suffers from complex regional pain syndrome and fibromyalgia after a car accident in 2011.

It means she finds the touch of anything on her legs, including water, clothes and even air, painful.

Sophie Etheridge swam for around 29 hours

Ms Etheridge, completed the challenge at 05:26 BST after more than 29 hours of swimming, her support team said.

It's thought to unofficially be the longest Channel swim on record.

Mrs Etheridge undertook the challenge to raise awareness of the STARLIGHT campaign by Swimming Teachers Association, which provides education for swimming teachers working with people with disabilities.

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