AN 86-year-old retired doctor is on the verge of completing an epic swimming challenge to help raise vital funds for the UK’s largest heart and lung hospital.

Dr William Hamilton-Deane has only 10 miles to go in order to reach his ultimate goal of 86 miles, which he has been swimming at Bannatyne’s Health Club in Peto Way, Lowestoft.

The retired Gorleston GP decided to swim a mile for every year of his life to raise money for Papworth Hospital in Cambridge.

Dr Hamilton-Deane is an experienced swimmer who has won several amateur titles throughout his life. He said: “I’m in the final part of a tiring, but very rewarding, challenge. Swimming has been a passion of mine for so many years, and I couldn’t think of a better way to try and raise money and awareness for Papworth Hospital.

“The staff at Bannatyne’s have been really supportive and I know they will help keep me motivated in the final stages of the swim.” By swimming the equivalent of the English Channel more than four times, he is aiming to raise awareness of the lifesaving treatment available at Papworth.

Alex Messham, general manager at Bannatyne’s, said: “William’s challenge has been the talk of the health club.

“He’s became even more of a fixture in the pool than usual and everyone has been cheering him on. His dedication to the challenge has been very inspiring to members and staff. It would be fantastic to see more donations as he nears the end of his swim.”

Meanwhile, Dr Sarah Clarke, consultant cardiologist and clinical director of cardiac services at Papworth Hospital, said: “I am delighted that Dr Hamilton-Deane has chosen to fund raise for Papworth Hospital.

“Both patients and staff at the hospital are very grateful for Dr Hamilton-Deane’s generosity, and the Bannatyne’s Health Club, for supporting our cause. I wish him the very best in his final leg of the swim.”

To make a donation to Dr Hamilton-Deane’s effort, contact Bannatyne’s Health Club on 01502 531116. Cheques can be made payable to Papworth Hospital Charity.