38 year old Alison Graham used to weigh almost 20 stone, she has shed over half her body weight – 10st 1lb - by developing a love of swimming as well as following a sensible eating programme. 

Alison says, “I have always struggled with my weight, I took the step to change my life by joining Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs. I saw the Aspire Channel Swim Challenge advertised in a Rosemary Conley magazine and decided to take part. The challenge changed my life, through healthy eating and exercise I was able to lose so much weight”.    

Alison Graham, Rosemary Conley
Slimmer of the Year 2007 runner up

“The Bristol Rugby Club players are encouraging people to get out and support the Aspire Channel Swim 2008. Sign up to take part in this amazing challenge”

Bristol Rugby Club

“I am aware of the hard work the charity Aspire puts into patients with spinal cord injuries and want to add to their efforts. Please join me in supporting the annual Aspire Channel Swim 2008. Best of luck for all of you who take part in the Aspire Channel Swim 2008. Enjoy, but remember no bombing and only minor heavy petting allowed!”

Dermot O’Leary, TV Presenter

“As a Rugby player, I know only too well the effects a spinal injury can have on someone. Rugby is a game where spinal injury is a very real threat. That is why I am supporting Aspire in this amazing campaign. The Aspire Channel Swim 2008 is a great challenge for all ages. If you think you can swim the distance of the English Channel in your own swimming pool then join up to take part. Aspire’s work is critical to the rehabilitation of people suffering from spinal injuries”.

Lawrence Dallaglio MBE

“Everyday, I am made aware of the health risks a Rugby player takes on when he enters the rugby field. A spinal injury can have a devastating effect on your life; this is where Aspire comes in. Aspire offers practical support to over 40,000 people living with a spinal cord injury in the UK so that they can lead fulfilled and independent lives in their homes, with their families, in work-places and leisure time. Join me in supporting Aspire by taking part in their annual fundraising event, the Aspire Channel Swim 2008 . Everyone, young or old can take part and raise much needed funds for Aspire!”

Paul Sackey, England Rugby Player

“Join me by signing up to the Aspire Channel Swim 2008. You will become fitter as well as helping to make a big difference by supporting people with spinal injuries.  Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise and it can be done by almost everyone.  Swimming on a regular basis increases stamina and keeps your heart and lungs healthy too”.   

Mark Foster, 6 times World Swimming Champion

“The Aspire Channel Swim 2008 is a fantastic challenge which can be done by people of all ages and fitness abilities. I have been swimming my whole life and love the sport. Join me in supporting this annual swimming event which you can take part in as a team or really splash out and go it alone. You will not only be getting fitter but also raising awareness for Aspire, the country’s leading spinal cord injury charity dedicated to supporting and rehabilitating people with Spinal Injuries”.

Sharron Davies MBE
Double Commonwealth Gold and Olympic Swimming Champion

“I took part in the Aspire Channel Swim 2008 last year to raise money and awareness for Aspire. I had a horrific car accident whilst filming on location in Spain in 2004 for “A Place in the Sun”. Knowing how close I came to losing the use of my legs has made me determined to take on this challenge again this year and raise money for those who aren't as lucky as I was”.    

Victoria Hollingsworth, TV Presenter