A team of energetic staff from West Midlands Ambulance Service swam the length of the English Channel yesterday to raise money for the Central Accident, Resuscitation and Emergency Team.

A total of 17 frontline staff from the Trust's Dudley base swam a combined 21 miles; the distance between the UK and France. Fortunately for them, they didn't need to brave to cold air of Calais or the freezing temperatures of Dover - the challenge was completed in the main pool of Dudley Leisure Centre.

Whilst responding to 999 emergencies, many Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians have been helped by the volunteers who operate the CARE Team at the scene of incidents. An independent registered charity, the team brings doctors, nurses and paramedics together to deliver enhanced critical care to seriously injured and unwell patients.  

Bringing the Emergency Department to the roadside, interventions include advanced pain relief, additional airway management, surgical interventions and pre-hospital ultrasounds which give patients the best chance of survival.

Each team member completed approximately 80 lengths with the full challenge taking around three hours. A JustGiving page set up to gain sponsorship for the event has smashed its target, raising almost £1,500.

Dudley Leisure supported the event by providing personal lifeguard cover and free use of their swimming pool for the challenge to take place.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so online at justgiving.com.