On 31st July, James Cliff, from Mayland, Clare Boston, Stuart Sargeant, Maddy Raymond and Drew Bell will travel to Kent to start their gruelling challenge: a 21-mile swim across to France.

They have already raised over an incredible £7,000 for Havens Hospices, which relies on donations to provide expert, compassionate care to babies, children, young people and adults living with incurable conditions.

James, who first swam the Channel solo for Havens Hospices in 2023, is no stranger to its icy, unpredictable waters. He is joined by fellow experienced swimmer Drew, who completed a successful solo Channel swim for Havens Hospices back in 2022, along with friends Clare, Stuart and Maddy, for a relay crossing, with each swimmer taking turns in the water before handing over to the next.

Swimming in relay brings its own demands. Each team member must contend with cold temperatures, strong tides and unpredictable conditions during their leg, before climbing back aboard to warm up just enough to do it all again.

The mammoth swim could take between 13 and 16 hours to reach France. Although the crossing is 21 miles as the crow flies, tides and currents mean they’re likely to swim considerably further. They will also have to navigate large ships in the world’s busiest shipping lane, as well as jellyfish.

The team is swimming to support Havens Hospices because of the difference the charity makes to families across Essex. They must raise more than £225,000 each week to be there for everyone who needs them.

James said: “The Channel is never predictable. It’s cold, it’s vast, and it doesn’t care how well you’ve trained – but we’re ready to take it on as a team for a fantastic local cause.”

He continued, “Havens Hospices offer care, dignity and comfort to people when they need it most, and donations make this happen. That’s why we wanted to swim for them. It’s truly a wonderful place; I saw first-hand the incredible facilities they provide to families in need. It gives me the motivation to keep going even when I want to give up.”

To support James, Clare, Stuart, Maddy and Drew, or to find out more about their Channel Swim Challenge, visit www.justgiving.com/page/burnhamrelay

Published on 31st July 2026