We are delighted to announce that our swimmers made a huge splash at this year’s Swim Serpentine event, raising an incredible £12,595 (plus Gift Aid) for CLEFT! With nine dedicated swimmers tackling distances ranging from half a mile to an impressive six miles, their determination and perseverance were nothing short of inspiring. The event was marked by excitement, stunning weather, and even some friendly swans joining in the fun at the Serpentine!

This achievement goes beyond just an impressive fundraising total—it has a profound impact on our small charity. For CLEFT, every pound raised directly supports vital work, whether that’s funding medical research or providing training to healthcare professionals in countries with limited resources. The efforts of our swimmers and the generosity of their supporters help us continue making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. For a charity of our size, this kind of fundraising success is transformative, enabling us to plan for the future and expand the scope of our impact.

We are immensely proud of our team and deeply grateful to everyone who supported them. Your contributions, encouragement, and belief in our mission made this possible, and we’re excited to build on this fantastic achievement at Swim Serpentine 2025! Thank you for helping us change lives.

       

The day itself was a beautiful one, with sunny skies, chilly waters, and a host of ducks, swans, and geese adding to the lively atmosphere. Our chairman, Brian Sommerlad, and members of the CLEFT team, including the children of our Deputy Operations Officer, came along to show their support. They cheered on the swimmers and celebrated with bubbly and chocolates after the races, making it a day to remember for everyone involved.

       

We can't thank you all enough for your incredible efforts, and we’re already looking forward to next year’s event! With your continued support, we know we can achieve even greater things.