Windermere according to the Long Distance Swimming Association can be like the channel....."with heavy wave action in both the north and south basins it becomes infinitely more arduous than if the water is calm. If the wind is a cross wind then the zig zag effect is enhanced as well, thus adding time and distance to the swim. The temperature of the water can also be influenced by cold upswellings".

It will take me something over 5 hrs in good conditions, it is an ultra-marathon swimming distance and much further than I've ever swum before.

Anoo is an ambassador for FRANK water, which does sterling work in marginalised communities in India.

Approximately 1 in 10 people in the world still do not have access to safe drinking water.  Diarrhoea claims nearly half a million lives annually just from lack of access to clean safe water and sanitation.  3.4 million people die each year from water related diseases.  Malnutrition is more common in India than in Sub Saharan Africa.

Did I mention..... Anoo has decided to do a different swim this year, and my own family have refused to be my paddle support, "too boring, might be cold.." that kind of thing, pathetic.  My only comfort is the warm glow of your sponsorship.  Before you think it, I've tested the other way of warming a wetsuit, it felt like I'd trapped the bubble in a spirit level, not great.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.