News / charity
Bristol man’s daring feat for cerebral palsy awareness
Nearly nine years after completing his first one-mile swim in 2016, the Bristol-based Ash Jenkins who suffers from cerebral palsy is set to take on an even bigger challenge: a three-mile swim in an open lake.
This is set to be all the more remarkable given the personal hurdles Ash has faced over the years, including a major medical procedure in which spinal rods were inserted to correct a curvature in his spine, a condition worsened by cerebral palsy.
The upcoming swim in September 2025 will raise funds for Cerebral Palsy Plus, a Bristol-based charity dedicated to supporting individuals with cerebral palsy of all ages.
is needed now More than ever
Ash has long been involved with the organisation, which aims to raise awareness about the often-overlooked signs, symptoms, and challenges faced by those living with cerebral palsy, particularly as they age.
Ash has transitioned from radio to TV, producing and presenting content
Speaking to Bristol24/7, Ash shared his thoughts on the upcoming swim. He said: “I’m going to be doing it in a wetsuit, so it’s going to be harder. But yeah, I’m looking forward to it.”
Ash is swimming on the nine-year anniversary of his first swim at Hengrove Leisure Centre, which took him three hours and 48 minutes to complete and raised £5,300 for the charity.
That swim earned Ash local recognition and led to his involvement with BCFM Radio, where he co-presented a midweek sports show, The Midweek Sports Bar, for two years.
Since then, Ash has transitioned from radio to TV, producing and presenting content. He has also taken on more daring activities, like bungee jumping.
“I’ve now moved into film,” Ash said. “I produced my first short film in December 2023 with the renowned Bristol director Paul Holbrook, and I’ve been involved in two more since.”
He will take the plunge in the open lake at the Ocean Walker swimming academy in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, run by the renowned swimmer Adam Walker, creator of the Ocean Walker swimming technique.
Ash will be assisted in his training by Walker. The swim will be accompanied by a documentary, which is set to increase outreach for cerebral palsy awareness.
The upcoming swim in September 2025 will raise funds for Cerebral Palsy Plus, a Bristol-based charity dedicated to supporting individuals with cerebral palsy of all ages
So far, Ash has raised £1,750 of his £10,000 target. He is deeply passionate about the cause. He explained: “The charity also supports new parents of children with cerebral palsy, offering guidance and connection.
“For many families, especially those facing the challenges of a new diagnosis, the journey can feel isolating and overwhelming. The charity’s support is invaluable during such a difficult time.”
To contribute to Ash’s fundraiser, visit www.donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/ashs-5k-swim
All photos: Ash Jenkins
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