Swimming the Channel (in Tameside) for Willow Wood

A Tameside resident is embarking on a journey in the heart of her local community to raise funds for a much-loved charity.

Natalie Drabble has pledged to swim the equivalent length of the English Channel to raise awareness for Willow Wood Hospice, a cause close to her heart.

Natalie’s challenge involves swimming a staggering 1,352 lengths of her local pool at the Wellness Centre in Denton. Spread over four weeks, she will hit the pool three times a week from June to July.

The challenge is not about fitness, but is a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, Angela, who received compassionate care from Willow Wood Hospice.

Angela’s memory has been a driving force for Natalie, who, despite a 17-year hiatus from competitive swimming, recently demonstrated incredible stamina by completing 102 lengths in just 1.5 hours.

Her return to swimming was inspired by fond memories of her time on a swimming team years ago.

Tameside Wellness Centre has thrown its full support behind Natalie’s fundraiser, providing practical assistance such as a dedicated lifeguard to count each length.

Willow Wood Hospice, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, provides vital care and support to individuals with life-limiting illnesses and their families across Tameside and beyond. Their services include in-patient care, community outreach, and support for families, all delivered with compassion and dedication.

For more information on how to support Natalie’s challenge and contribute to Willow Wood Hospice, visit her JustGiving page.