AN Acton woman has begun a mission to swim 100 miles by July to raise vital funds for London’s Air Ambulance.

She has been clocking up laps of the pool at Acton pool, operated by Everyone Active in partnership with Ealing Council.

Nicky Defries, who was involved in a serious road traffic accident last summer, has always been a swimmer. She wanted to do something which would aid her recovery but also give back to the charity who helped in her hour of need.

London Air Ambulance serves the ten million people who live, work and commute within the M25.

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Nicky, who is still on crutches, has already swum more than 400 lengths, with 6,000 more to go before she reaches her goal. She aims to finish on July 12, the first anniversary of her accident.

“The day my doctors told me I could swim again was a celebratory day for me,” said Nicky. “I have never done something like this before, but I want to give back to this amazing service that was there when I needed it.”

Laura Griffiths, general manager of Everyone Active Acton, said: “We are extremely honoured that Nicky has chosen to undertake such a fantastic feat at our centre. We are behind her every step of the way.”

To donate to Nicky's cause click here.