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Heather conquers channel challenge

by Alice McKeegan
30/ 9/2008

A STUDENT proved that very cold water and jelly fish are no obstacles to success when she swam the English Channel for charity.

Heather Sellars, aged 18, of Norden, completed one of the toughest challenges in world swimming in less than 11 hours on Saturday.

Her achievements were even more remarkable because she had to take painkillers after developing severe back pain during her swim.

Her proud dad, Callum, was on hand to offer his support in a back-up boat and held his breath when he saw a 40ft catamaran approaching.

Despite her difficulties, she was determined to succeed and gained new strength when she spotted France.

She was also inspired by her late grandfather, John Collins, who died after a year-long battle with leukaemia and aimed to raise thousands of pounds for good causes.

She said: "The swim was really emotional. I had a difficult week when I was waiting to be given the go-ahead, but then the weather improved.

"It was very difficult and it was hard to deal with the boredom and the cold, but it was an amazing exerience.

"My mum Carol was in tears when she realised that I’d done it. She’s been there for me every step of the way and she was so proud of me."

Heather received a heroine’s welcome and was greeted with a standing ovation when she returned to Bury Grammar School on Monday.

Bobby Georghiou, the headteacher, was impressed by Heather’s dedication to her training and praised her positive attitude.

She said: "Heather’s achievement is an inspiration to us all. We are so very proud of her.

"She has undertaken an amazing challenge which she has tackled with great courage and sheer determination."

Heather has almost reached her £10,000 target.

All proceeds will be split between the school’s appeal for a sixth form centre, her world challenge expedition to China, where she will help improve living conditions in an orphanage and Leukaemia Research in memory of her grandfather.

To sponsor her, visit www.justgiving.com/heathersellars1