The Bluetits Chill Swimmers group was began in September 2014 by its founder, Sian Richardson, to share her love of cold-water dipping, before officially becoming a Social Enterprise in 2020 to further support the ever-growing community. A core value of the Blutits is “Challenging our limits, together”, and that looks different to everybody. Whether that’s joining in on your first swim, or taking part in one of their events, the Bluetit community is here to support and encourage everyone.

On the 12th June 2024, the Bluetit 1 Channel Relay Team challenged their own limits together by completing their own relay Channel crossing. The dedication they all put into this journey, and the exhilaration they felt afterwards, inspired The Bluetits to help facilitate other Bluetits to achieve this same goal. So, the Bluetit 2 Channel Relay Team 2025 was born! This wonderful team will be attempting to cross the Channel supported and facilitated by The Bluetits. As part of this, each team member will be fundraising to cover their own costs for this adventure, totalling £2450. Anything raised above this is generously being donated by them to The Bluetits to go back into the community.

After my Mum passed away in 2021 I wanted to do something different, a challenge. I was always a pool swimmer but got in touch with Ballyronan Bluetits to take up open water swimming. It was not a straightforward transition from pool to open water and I was very happy to have the Ballyronan Bluetits to advise regarding safety and length of time in the water. Their help make the experience very enjoyable.

Now I have the opportunity of being part of a Bluetit Channel Swim Relay Team 2025, and while the thought of it makes me nervous, it is a very exciting prospect. It makes me proud to be connected with the Bluetits, to raise money for them and to promote this great organisation.