A FATHER living in Dorset wants to “make a difference” when he takes to the waters of South Africa to raise money for two charities.
Nick Bird, originally from Cape Town, is next week to take to the waters of South Africa for a five-mile swim in the South Atlantic Ocean – home to sharks.
The 42-year-old father of two hopes to raise £3,000 for two charities via his JustGiving page, including Poole and District Children’s Cancer Fund (PDCCF) and MYTIME Young Carers.
He said: “I’m feeling a natural mix of excitement and nerves before the swim. It’s an exciting challenge but I will be in the water for over two hours in cold water.
“I’m doing this to make a difference. I have two children myself so I have a natural affinity to help children.”
Nick will fly out on Saturday, January 28 to Cape Town before taking on the swim from Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, to mainland South Africa.
Despite the sharks and cold water, Nick is very much looking forward to the swim, which will take place next week weather-depending.
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He added: “Swimming is my thing: I did Brownsea Island in 2017 and raised £2,000 for Julia’s House.
“Whatever comes in I will be very grateful for. So far, I have raised £1,800 which is a good start, but I am hoping to reach £3,000.
“I know it's a tough time for everyone in one way or another, money is tight, but charities across the board need assistance now more than ever.
“Your kind donations will go directly to these two charities and hopefully do something to brighten up someones day”
He added: “I hope to not come across any sharks - they have time off around February.”
PDCCF is a charity which aims to enhance the quality of life for local children and their families undergoing treatment for cancer and works with local hospital teams.
MYTIME Young Carers supports young carers’ physical, mental and emotional wellbeing across the area.
Donations to Nick and the two charities can be made here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/nick-bird
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