Aspire has been organising relay Channel swims since 2009, which have to date raised over £2.2 million to support people with Spinal Cord Injury, and this summer will see our 100th boat cross the English Channel. 

Driving aids and vehicle adaptation company for disabled people, Mobility in Motion, is sponsoring Aspire's 100th boat to mark the milestone, saving Aspire £3,500 in costs that will instead go directly to funding the charity’s services and programmes.

The team of six include one member of Aspire’s first Channel Relay team in 2009; Eleanor Reddington, will be joining Team Llama to swim the 100th channel crossing and mark the occasion. She will be joined by five others who have also previously swam the Channel in an Aspire relay team: Katy Bradfield, Robyn Carter, Marc Gledhill, Alice Stone and Paul Parrish, Aspire’s Director of Fundraising & Marketing.

Eleanor has continued to support Aspire and last year swam 70 miles for her 70th birthday raising over £3,000 for Aspire. She is one of the charity’s biggest supporters, raising £20,000 over the last 20 years. 

Swimmers from the first boat in 2009 - Eleanor Reddington and Aspire’s CEO, Brian Carlin

Paul Parrish, Director of Fundraising and Marketing for Aspire, said: “Reaching our 100th Channel crossing is a testament to the dedication of our swimmers and supporters.  Every single swimmer who has taken part in our swim programme over the last 20 years should be proud of their achievements and of the profound difference they have made to the lives of people with spinal cord injury. Each swim represents a step forward in providing critical services and programs that empower individuals to regain independence and lead fulfilling lives.

“The funds raised over the last two decades have done so much for so many and we hope this continues for many more to come. We want to thank the team at Mobility in Motion for supporting our 100th crossing and underwriting the cost of the pilot boat. It will make this crossing not just symbolic but financially practical in helping people with Spinal Cord Injury.”

Matt Fieldhouse, Managing Director at Mobility in Motion, said: “We are delighted to support Aspire's incredible milestone. Our contribution allows more resources to be directed towards their essential programmes, making a real difference in the lives of those with spinal cord injuries. Being part of this landmark event aids in our mission to enhance mobility and independence for people with disabilities."

Four of the Aspire Llamas from left to right: Robyn Carter, Mark Gledhill, Katy Bradfield, Paul Parrish

Sponsor Eleanor

Swimming with Aspire

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