Local outdoor swimmers from Taplow, Buckinghamshire, will brave the English Channel for charity this July.

The daring team only have seven months to prepare for their challenging aquatic quest.

The camaraderie of six swimmers; Katy, Claire, Carine, Janet, Bondy and Mike, was formed by professional swim coach Stephen Gould.

He rallied fellow swimmers from Taplow Lake, for this undertaking.

Although the team's age may be higher than the average for a channel relay, their determination surpasses most.

This endeavour extends beyond simply completing the swim, they are also striving to gain sponsorship for the charity, The Samaritans.

The Samaritans are often a sanctuary for those feeling solitary, providing crucial outreach work in schools, prisons, festivals and railways.

They further offer workplace training focusing on mental health and advocate for more investment in local and national suicide prevention.

One team member, Katy, who volunteers for The Samaritans, shared some insight on the personal importance of this swim, saying: "It’s hard to know sometimes how much of a difference a call can make to someone.

"All calls are confidential and it’s unlikely we’ll ever speak to the same caller again.

"But being able to give someone the time and space to be themselves, explore their thoughts and feelings with no judgement and know that they matter can be the starting point to finding a way to get their life heading in a better direction."

The team, branded as the Taplow Sea Bears, are in full preparation mode for the swim, with bags packed ready at their doors early July.

Their journey will take them to Dover for what may be the most physically demanding task any of them has ever faced.

But knowing their solitary swim could raise funds to assist those feeling isolated, will be real motivation.

The statistic remains, only one in five relay teams succeed, so they are giving their all to ensure they are ready.

To sponsor the Taplow Sea Bears’ endeavour, go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/taplow-sea-bears-1713707903093.

Your sponsorship goes beyond the Sea Bears, supporting a service invaluable to those in desperate need of a listening ear and support.

After all, a simple call could start someone on a journey to a brighter tomorrow.