Dessy completes epic charity swim
Scottish Woodlands’ Forestry Director has completed his marathon swimming challenge to raise money for Marie Curie.
Dessy, who splits his working time between Scotland and Northern Ireland, swam the distance of the Belfast-Cairnryan ferry between the two countries - a muscle-aching 50 miles (80km).
He completed most of the challenge in the swimming pool, but finished the final stretch by swimming ashore in the chilly waters of Loch Ryan, Dumfries & Galloway - close to where the ferry docks at Cairnryan.
Dessy was greeted just off the coast by three colleagues in kayaks - David Robertson, Jamie Reith and Andy Maclachlan from Scottish Woodlands’ Investment team. They completed their own charity challenge in May by paddling their kayaks 57 miles (92km) along the Great Glen Canoe Trail in just two and a half days.
Dessy, whose challenge was equivalent to a massive 3,200 lengths of a normal 25-metre swimming pool, said: “It’s been a really tough challenge to make the time to cover such a significant distance, especially as I have never been a great swimmer."
“But raising money for such a superb charity really focused my mind - and the prospect of getting fitter, and slimmer, was a major bonus.”
The challenge began when colleagues urged Dessy - who has worked for Scottish Woodlands for more than 30 years - to build up his fitness.
“I’m grateful that they pushed me to do this - I think,” Dessy said. “Seriously, I’ve had amazing support from my colleagues, and it was great that Dave, Jamie and Andy were there to support me as I came ashore at Cairnryan.”
Mr Robertson said: “Hats off - and Speedos on - to Dessy. He deserves huge praise for taking on this epic challenge for Marie Curie, Scottish Woodlands chosen charity this year."
“It was brilliant to see him coming ashore at Cairnryan at the culmination of his amazing effort - like Daniel Craig as James Bond in Casino Royale.”
Dessy’s efforts are part of a 2026 fundraising drive by Scottish Woodlands staff to raise £10,000 for Marie Curie. To help us reach the target, please do so via this Just Giving link.