A SOLICITOR has made a splash for cash by swimming the English Channel for charity.

Based at Trethowans’ Salisbury office, family law specialist Andrew Mercer joined a relay team to take on the challenge, in a bid to raise money for Aspire.

Andrew’s challenge is part of the Aspire Channel Swim 2019 - a challenge inviting swimmers to raise money by attempting the 22 mile distance between Britain and France.

“Aspire does vital work supporting those who have had the misfortune to suffer a spinal cord injury,” said Andrew.

“The charity enables people to get on with their home and work lives - as well as be able to enjoy recreation and sport.

“Along with the rest of the relay team, I was determined to raise as much money as possible, in aid of this very worthy cause.”

In preparation for the feat Andrew had trained in a mixture of settings and conditions, both in sea and in lake.

Training spots included “22 degree luxury” at Ellingham Lake and the “near on impossible swell and rollers at Sandbanks”.

Andrew added: “As a team we completed a very hard training programme, and the only thing that could possibly have stopped us was the weather.

“Luckily, the elements were relatively kind to us, and we came through.”

The team began their journey to the channel in the middle of August, with other members including Lizzie Rose, Ellie Reid, Jo McCready-Fallon, Kat Otto and Vicky Sambrook.

Andrew said the incoming donations are “much appreciated”, adding: “I’d like to say a massive thank you to all who have already sponsored us.

“This was an incredible challenge for all concerned, and we’re thrilled to have reached the French coast fully intact.

“Sadly, those who suffer spinal cord injuries are not so lucky. Anyone who would still like to donate can do so by visiting our JustGiving page.”

Online Andrew has raised more than £3,000 for the spinal cord injury charity.

For more information and to donate visit his JustGiving page.