A freelance journalist has swum the English Channel for a second time.

Nicola Joyce, from Wokingham, completed the epic 22-mile crossing in 14h 27m, becoming the 83rd person to make the journey twice.

She left Samphire Hoe – between Folkestone and Dover – at 2.15am to dock on a beach in Wissant the following afternoon at 4.42pm.

Her previous effort in 2004 was 12 minutes quicker but the 31-year-old took a slightly longer route this time.

Nicola said: "One of the first things everyone has asked is 'How long did it take?' but every Channel swim is different and each one takes a different route due to the movement of the tides.

"I took a longer route this time and started from a different place, so I am quite happy with the fact that I was in the water for 12 minutes more than the first time.

"I am sure I swam faster on this occasion – I know I couldn't have swum faster."

Nicola specialises in freelance sports reporting and contributes stories to magazines such as Triathlon 220 and Ultra Fit.

She is also a keen triathlete and plans to swim the 18-mile distance from Jersey to France next month, weather permitting.

Nicola added: "It was never a one-off thing for me.

"I always new I'd do it at least one more time. I had fantastic conditions and loved every minute of the swim.

"I enjoy it and I would do it again probably."

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