150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST CROSSING OF THE ENGLISH CHANNEL

A major celebration at the Port of Dover, the District Council, and the Town Council will host a seafront event to commemorate the first successful crossing of the English Channel.

On August 25, 1875, Captain Matthew Webb swam from England to France, completing the crossing in 22 hours.

The Port of Dover stated: 'Captain Webb's achievement paved the way for an inspiring future for Channel swimming, which has now seen over 4,000 successful swims.'

Diederik Smet, Head of Events and Partnerships, said: 'We are delighted to be hosting some brilliant swimming and sports organisations today, enabling many generations to follow in the footsteps of icons like Captain Webb.'