4:03PM, Fri May 25, 2012

300 Mile Swimmer Hopes Achievement Will Help Others

By India Adams Location: South Tyneside

Video: 300 Mile Swimmer David Young

A man who swam 300 miles to raise awareness of mental health issues is hoping his epic journey will help others.

David Young, 44, took to the water as a means of motivating himself after experiencing periods of low mood caused by the death of his close friend Davey Mac who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and committed suicide in 2006.

Over a period of two years David swam in indoor pools, open water and a variety of outdoor swimming events across the UK, raising funds for mental health charity Mind.

His journey was filmed by friend and mentor Tor Alexander Bruce, who has now made a documentary of David’s experience which he hopes will inspire others suffering from mental health issues.

In addition, Mr Bruce has also launched a programme called ‘One Single Step’, designed to offer support and guidance to individuals facing challenges in their lives.

For more information, visit the One Single Step Website: www.1singlestep.org