36 swimmers have completed an early-morning crossing of the Solent from Hurst Spit to Colwell Bay, raising more than £37,000 for Wessex Cancer Support.
Swim for Hope 2026 saw participants set off from Hurst Spit at 05:35 on Saturday 9th August, making their way across to the Isle of Wight.
The swimmers were supported by a team of more than 30 kayakers and safety boats, with near-perfect conditions reported on the Solent.
Organisers say the event brought together swimmers in a spirit of camaraderie and shared determination, with participants crossing the water as the sun rose.
One swimmer said:
“What a magical experience. Thank you so much for the impeccable organisation, the kayaking stars, the shore support and everyone who helped make the day so special.
“I loved the swim and really enjoyed meeting everyone. Such quick and special bonds were formed between us all through sharing this experience together.”
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All of the money raised will go to Wessex Cancer Support, which provides free counselling, complementary therapies and peer support to people living with cancer and their families across Hampshire and Dorset.
Swim for Hope was first held in 2021 and has since grown into an annual charity sporting event, bringing together swimmers from the Isle of Wight and the mainland for the Hurst Spit to Colwell Bay crossing.
Wessex Cancer Support says it supported 18,900 people across the region during 2025, with its services provided free of charge and funded through charitable donations and community fundraising.
This year’s event was supported by Freshwater Lifeboat, The Needles Pleasure Cruise, Wight Crystall and Asda Isle of Wight, with Jamie Webster of RenoDrain as headline sponsor.
Pre-registration has now opened for Swim for Hope 2027 at www.register.enthuse.com/ps/event/RegisteryourinterestinSwimforHope2027.
