American mum living in Bournemouth swims across the Channel

Laura Goodwin, from West Virginia, swam from Dover to Calais in a "once in a lifetime" challenge covering 31 miles. 

Cheered on by her son Alex and family, Laura set off to France on July 11 at 7.30am. 

The family kept in close contact throughout with the swim team, tracking Laura’s progress as she set sail on her goal of reaching destination Calais.  

Read more: Port of Poole used as alternative as Dover struggles with queues

Laura Goodwin in Calais

Just under 11 hours on from starting at around 6.15pm, Laura had reached Calais, exhausted but exhilarated that it was mission accomplished. 

Laura said: “It’s always been a goal of mine to swim the Channel, as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To have finally completed it after all this time is so incredibly rewarding.  

“Throughout, I have wanted to show Alex, and his friends, that if you really put your mind to a task and if you genuinely want to achieve it, you will find a way to do so.  

Her son Alex added: “I’m really proud of my mum for completing the swim, I know it’s been a goal of hers for a while and I was happy to see her finally accomplish it.”