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Double Amputee Conquers 2.5-Mile Swim to Isle of Wight
23 Jul
Summary
- A double amputee swam from England to the Isle of Wight.
- The challenging swim spanned 2.5 miles across the Solent.
- Funds were raised for charities supporting veterans and youth.

Simon Harmer, a combat medic who lost both legs during his service in Afghanistan, has completed a challenging 2.5-mile swim. He swam from Stokes Bay, Gosport, to Ryde on the Isle of Wight. Harmer believes this makes him the first double amputee to achieve this particular crossing.
He was joined in the water by 64-year-old Mark Ryan, who had suggested the challenge after meeting Harmer at their local swimming pool. The swim also served as a fundraising effort for two charities. These included the Pilgrim Bandits, an organization dedicated to assisting injured veterans, and Winnall Rock School, which offers free music workshops for young individuals.