AN air cadets volunteer is swimming the length of the English Channel to help a charity that supports children in her group.

Sam Clark, from Leigh, signed up to Diabetes UK’s Swim 22 challenge after seeing the impact diabetes creates.

The 22-mile challenge started on February 22 and finishes on May 22, with Sam, 26, clocking up the distance in the DW Fitness gym she attends.

Sales assistant Sam said: “We have children with type 1 diabetes in the air cadets and I’m so impressed with how they cope with managing their condition every day.

“Some of my colleagues and friends have also been affected by the condition so I hope that by taking on this challenge I can help improve the lives of people with diabetes.”

Around 4.6 million people in the UK suffer with diabetes. If not managed well, type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to complications such as sight loss, amputation, kidney failure and strokes.

Sam is also overcoming a personal challenge as she is not a confident swimmer.

She added: “I took part in the challenge a couple of years ago with a group of friends.

"We split the distance between us but it was still tough as I’m not the strongest of swimmers.

“I’m hoping to rise to the challenge this time and prove to myself I can do it on my own.”

Diabetes UK regional fundraiser Maria Whittaker said: “We are delighted Sam is making a splash for Diabetes UK. The lengths she is going to will bring us closer to our vision of a world where diabetes can do no harm.”

To sponsor Sam click here.