Father to swim Channel in memory of daughter (From Messenger Newspapers)

Ian Shaw will swim the English Channel to raise money for St Ann's Hospice

1:32pm Monday 6th August 2012 in Urmston

A BIG-hearted father from Flixton is preparing to swim the English Channel this weekend in memory of his daughter, who died from cervical cancer in May 2011.

Along with four friends, Ella Dunn (27), Kate Armstrong (24), Steve Lyons (42) and Paul Canes (42), the 56-year-old Ian Shaw will battle the freezing temperatures and swim the 22 miles to raise money for St Ann’s Hospice, after they helped Colette to pass peacefully in her home as she wished.

Ian said: “Colette was an accomplished swimmer and so this seems a fitting and appropriate fund raising challenge.

“Colette was a remarkably strong person who bore her illness with stoicism and fortitude – she was supported by her brother James, fiancé Nick and her family and close friends.

“The whole family miss her vibrancy, energy and zest for life but the beautiful young woman she was will stay firmly etched in our memories.”

Since last year, Ian and friends from Flixton Swim Team have been able to raise more than £3,000 with the help of fun days and charity swims.

To make a donation to Ian, visit justgiving.com/Colette-Shaw1