A STUDENT has raised �1,000 for charity by taking part in a swim across the English Channel.

Jake Berridge, a year 11 pupil at Sherrardswood School in Lockleys, Welwyn, was one of six people who took turns at swimming from Dover to Calais, in order to raise money for the charities of their choice.

Despite having to swim through the night and being stung in the face by a jellyfish, Jake completed his section of the swim in just three hours, raising �1,000 for Cruse Bereavement Care in Hertfordshire, which helped his family cope with the sudden death of a close friend last year.

“After the funeral my mum was watching a TV programme on which a man had swum the Channel 35 times,” said Jake, 15.

“Having experienced the pain and negativity that surrounds death, and wanting to show the [deceased’s] kids that life has to go on, mum asked me if I would ever consider doing that and I thought that it would be a great achievement to do.”

He added: “And also, not many people can say that they have swum from England to France.”

Jake’s school backed him with a donation of �250.

A school spokeswoman said: “We are always very proud of the staff and pupils here at Sherrardswood, who on a regular basis show our beliefs in community spirit, innovation and working hard for what you believe in.

“Jake has done an amazing job raising money for this very worthwhile cause.

“Well done to him and all involved.”

Jake, from Hertingfordbury, is planning a solo effort across the Channel next year, again in aid of Cruse, but needs �3,000 to get going – before he can even raise a penny.

If you can help Jake, call Mary Slevin at Cruse Bereavement Hertfordshire on 01707 269497.