A Wiltshire father is set to swim the English Channel in a brave bid to raise funds for two local charities.

The father-of-two, Alex David, from Devizes, has chosen to swim 21.5 miles from Dover to the French shore of Cap Gris-Nez to raise money for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice and Devizes Opportunity Centre.

Mr David explained the swim, saying: "I have heard that more people have climbed Mount Everest than have successfully swum the English Channel.

"So, it’s a pretty big thing to do but I’ll give it my best shot."

Mr David is also mindful of the potential risks - the cold water, unpredictable weather conditions and powerful tidal currents pose significant challenges.

"I’m most worried about the cold after several hours because you can’t just grit your teeth and get on with it – there is the risk of hyperthermia and other issues," he explained.

Despite such concerns, Mr David, who has already raised around £3,500 for his chosen charities, remains committed to his challenge, even if it involves "embarrassing trunk shots," he joked.

Julia’s House is the local charity dedicated to supporting the families of children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions   (Image: Julia’s House)

Julia’s House, one of the lowest funded hospices in the UK, anticipates a £1m budget shortfall this year, making fundraisers like Mr David's crucial.

Expressing his admiration for their work, Mr David said: "I visited the charity's hospice in Devizes during an Open Day, and it was so inspiring and thought-provoking."

Julia’s House fundraising assistant, Nicky Clack, thanked Mr David for his efforts.

She said: "We were really pleased to welcome Alex to our hospice, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to him for swimming the channel to help the families we care for."

Equally, Mr David holds high regard for the Devizes Opportunity Centre: "It now offers a comprehensive assessment of need and creates ongoing developmental programs, specialist early intervention, specific teaching strategies, stimulating play activities and fun with a view to maximising their learning experiences and to help each child reach their potential."

While not only being cheered on by Ms Clack and the families at Julia's House from the shore, Mr David will be accompanied by a crew of friends aboard a pilot boat.

Although Mr David can't touch the boat or anyone during the swim, his crew can supply him with food and much-needed motivational words, and will regularly update his social media audience on his progress.

To support Mr David and follow his journey you can visit www.justgiving.com/page/alexswims2-france.