Colin Grainger, who is now a trustee of Ambition, Aspire, Achieve, is taking part in his annual swim in support of the Kevin Jenkins OBE Christmas Toy Appeal.
The campaign is being run in partnership with the Recorder.
Colin said: “I am proud to be a patron of the toy appeal campaign.
“The need is greater than ever this year.
“It is vital we get new gifts to young people who would otherwise go without.”
Now a freelance journalist, the 71-year-old will be taking part for the 48th year in a row.
This year, he will be joined in the pool by two of his grandchildren, Laura, 11, and Natalie, eight.
Colin helped launch the original appeal alongside Ambition, Aspire, Achieve founder Kevin Jenkins.
Donations can be made through his JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/colin-grainger-602.
