A university student who swam the English Channel in memory of her grandfather has been praised after achieving "something truly incredible".
Evie Anema, 23 - a member of the Cambridge University swimming team and former Norwich Swan Swimming Club competitor - completed the gruelling Channel crossing to raise money for a Lowestoft charity that supported her grandfather Derek, who died in 2018.
With the 30-mile (48km) challenge in his memory, money has been raised for Pathways Care Farm in Lowestoft, which supported Derek as he had Alzheimer’s disease.
The charity uses a 13-acre farm in north Lowestoft to provide therapeutic support and care for people living with mental ill-health, learning difficulties or dementia.
Evie was stung by jellyfish and suffered from seasickness as she battled the changing tides.
She said: "The solo channel swim was one of the toughest things I have ever done.
"While my grandpa was still with us, Pathways Care Farm was one of his favourite places to visit.
"The farm provided him with a space where he was cared for and nurtured, whilst getting the chance to get hands-on.
"I was determined to help Pathways continue their fantastic work."
The gruelling solo charity swim took Evie 11 hours 14 minutes, making it the second fastest solo crossing of the year so far.
Evie, who is a lifeguard and studying to become a vet, spent two years training for the challenge, which has so far raised over £5,000 for the charity.
She added: "As I touched the rocks I knew the last 30 miles of pain and months of training had been worth it."
Geoff Stevens, director of the Pathways Care Farm, said: "Evie has achieved something truly incredible and I know her Grandpa would be very proud of her.
"The money she has raised will go a long way in helping more people like Derek who are affected by Alzheimer's disease."
You can pledge funds to the worthy cause via Evie's JustGiving page online at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/evieswimsthechannel
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