MONTHS of dedicated training brought its reward when a six-strong relay team from East Dorset Open Water SC successfully conquered the Channel in the impressive time of 12 hours 3 minutes.

The team of Barry Alldrick, Sarah Day, Mark Vides, Rebecca Christian-Drage, Danni Callahan and Jennie Boyt swam hourly stints in rotation before finally stepping ashore at Cap Gris Nez.

Barry, better known as Seagulls' head coach, was the first and last swimmer but the others and team manager Bob Holman joined him for a jubilant landing on the French coast.

The first three hours of the swim took place in the dark after starting from Abbot's Cliff near Folkestone at 2.10am.

Queen of the Channel' Alison Streeter, who has completed 43 solo crossings, more than any other person, saw the team off .

Bob Holman said: "The team was well prepared after a rigorous training schedule begun in January.

"They showed great courage and determination and were very supportive of each other."

The team were raising money for two charities - the Rett Syndrome Association (rettsyndrome.org.uk) and the Marine Conservation Society (mcsuk.org).

Potential sponsors can contact Bob Holman on 01305 848262 or Tracey Drage on 01300 341070.