Dear Swimmers,

It is with great sadness the Channel Swimming and Piloting Federation confirms the death an Irish swimmer whist attempting a solo crossing of the English Channel early this morning.

Páraic Casey from Cork, Ireland began his swim at 9.13am on Saturday morning and was just 1km from the coast of France at around 1:30 this morning when he took ill.

Attempts were made by crew to resuscitate him before a French rescue helicopter arrived with medics who tried further resuscitation.

Mr Casey was a member of the Sandycove Swimming Club in Cork, Ireland.

He is survived by his wife Riana who has issued the following statement:

“Páraic was an amazing, healthy, tough, loving husband, friend, brother, uncle, son, nephew and cousin who’s recent passion for swimming brought him to great places. I would like to thank everyone for their love and support. We ask that our privacy is respected during this difficult time.”

CSPF Chairman

Michael Oram

All media enquiries to Frances Thornton

+44 (0) 7716505667