Brighton fundraiser swims nude for the RNLI

Fifty-five year-old Phil Pool is currently swimming in the Channel every day to raise money for the RNLI, wearing nothing but gloves and socks.

The father of two has been entering from Brighton naturist beach daily since September, and plans to continue until New Year.

The intrepid sea swimmer says he was inspired by the RNLI’s vital work in Brighton, and so came up with the idea for this fundraising challenge.

“I’ve never needed to use the RNLI,” says Pool. “I’m a cautious swimmer, rarely going far out of my depth but I have seen the work that they do and they are an amazing charity.

“So far, I’ve managed to swim every day that I’ve been able to. I won’t swim if it’s too rough or I’m unavoidably too far from the sea or a suitable river.

“I’ve done some cold water swimming before, so I know that it’s possible to acclimatise, but it’s still quite daunting. I don’t mind the sea being cold; it’s the time spent getting changed, with the strong, cold winds we get in Brighton that is the real challenge.”

Pool, who has lived in Brighton for 20 years and works to make transport more accessible for disabled people, has overcome three spine operations as well as operations on his wrists, elbows and one knee but uses swimming to keep physically and mentally fit.

Roger Cohen, lifeboat operations manager for Brighton says: “Our volunteer crew are grateful for Phil’s support and know they are taking sensible precautions in terms of weather conditions when deciding if they can safely swim each day.

“It’s really important to acclimatise to cold water slowly and enter gradually to reduce the risk of cold water shock. Also please do always tell someone what your plans are and when you will be back.

“We have a well-established sea swimming community across Brighton and Hove who are aware of how to have fun safely, but it is important to reiterate these messages as we head into the colder months.”

Pool has already raised over £450. To support him, visit Pool’s JustGiving page.