When asked why she decided to take part Ruth had this to say:

"It's a great opportunity to promote healthy lifestyles and regular exercise both for myself and my employees; as well as supporting a very worthy charity. It will also put our flexible working arrangements to the test (as anyone from our company that takes part will be starting work slightly later).

I'm also hoping to use it as an opportunity to improve my fitness and stamina hopefully without the crash and burn; (Ruth has Hypermobility Syndrome which can cause extreme fatigue) as well as maybe lose some weight along the way!"

The Aspire Channel Swim allow individuals, groups or companies to take on the challenge of swimming the English Channel (22 miles) in the warmth and comfort of their local swimming pool; doing as many or as few sessions as they like over a 12 week period.

Virya Technologies' whole ethos is based on the Buddhist practice of Dana, (generous giving) so taking part in and promoting this event falls comfortably in line with that ethos. It also encourages individuals and businesses to come together to make a tangible difference in their communities something that Virya Technologies always aspires to do.

If you would like to get involved you can go to: http://www.aspirechannelswim.co.uk/ or you can sponsor Ruth by visiting her fund raising page at http://www.justgiving.com/viryatechnologies2011swim. You can pay by credit or debit card, and the money will go directly to Aspire. Where supporters are UK taxpayers, the charity will automatically receive 28% extra in Gift Aid, which makes Justgiving the most efficient way of sponsoring Ruth.

Notes to Editors

For further information or to arrange a photo call please contact Ruth Cheesley on 01473 722898

For further information and photos for The Aspire Channel Swim please contact Alex Rankin on 020 8420 6352.