Wing couple in unique fundraising challenge

Keith and Jenny Esdon of Chesterfield Crescent admit they’re taking themselves out of their comfort zone for “this very worthy cause.”

Export sales manager Keith, 60, said: “We’ve never done anything like this before and we’re both apprehensive and excited about what lies ahead.

“It’s a challenge for us but it’s not a choice for many refugees. The length we’re swimming is just over 7km and we felt this represented the hazardous boat trips taken by so many desperate families.

“We have sea experience and when you’re in the water and prepared, it’s not dangerous. But many of these poeple don’t know how to swim and have their children with them.

“They’ve come from places that are hell on earth and yet they still get a bad rap.

“That’s why we’re fundraising for International Maritime Rescue which saves people is distress on Mediterranean waters and prevents loss of life at sea.”

Keith and landscape management consultant Jenny, 52, who have two grown-up sons, aren’t phased about flying into Istanbul later this month after the recent terrorist attack. He said: “Security will be even tighter now.”

> If you’d like to sponsor the Esdons, visit https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/Swimming-for-Refugees