A woman from Westhoughton, Bolton is preparing to undertake a challenging 21.75 mile swim in Loch Lomond this month - something only around 35 people in the world have successfully completed.

Michelle Sharples, 39, is starting the charity swim on 28th August, which will take around 15 hours to complete, to raise money for the leading cancer centre The Christie.

Michelle, who has been married to husband John for over 15 years, said; "I've always enjoyed swimming but I've never done anything as challenging as this before!

"One of the main reasons people don't manage to complete the swim is because it can be so cold and I'm not even going to be wearing a wetsuit - just a swimming costume. I do like to test myself both mentally and physically!

"I'll start it about 5pm so the majority of the swim will be in darkness. I'll have a support boat next to me but I won't stop at any time and I can't even touch the boat - they'll have to throw food and water to me! If it all goes to plan I'll finish it about 8am the following morning."

Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Britain by surface area, lying on the boundary between the lowlands of Central Scotland and the Highlands.

She added; "'Staying in the water for this swim is like staying the course for cancer treatment. You can't just 'get out' when you are tired or if you just don't feel like it any more, you have to stay in to the finish. I'm not a cancer survivor but I know about staying in there for the long haul so I hope my swim will in some way inspire those who are in treatment.

"I've already raised over £1,800 and I'm determined to raise as much money as possible for The Christie. My granddad was treated there, as was my friend's mum. It does such fantastic work and you never know - if everyone does their little bit, and raise money, we might help save lives. Please visit my fundraising page and give what you can - www.justgiving.com/LochLomondmichellesharples "

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity, Emma Tilley, said; "This is an incredible and admirable challenge that will no doubt be difficult at times. But what a great feeling she'll have when she gets to the end - knowing that she's not only achieved something personally, but done something remarkable to help cancer patients.

"If you've been inspired by Michelle's challenge, but think you would struggle with such a long distance, then there are other swimming opportunities in support of our charity.

"On the 26th September a new swimming event - the Great Salford Swim - is taking place. It's a one-mile outdoor swim in Salford Quays, and is a brilliant challenge for swimmers of all abilities.

"To get involved and raise money for The Christie, please visit www.christies.org or call 0161 446 3401 for more information. All of our swimmers will be provided with a fundraising pack complete with Christie swimming cap."

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