A new exhibition on Channel swimmers has opened on the anniversary week of the first successful crossing.

Dover Museum is celebrating their achievements through the decades with permanent displays.

Captain Matthew Webb went down in history as the first to achieve the feat, in 22 hours, on August 24, 1875.

The idea of swimming across the sea between England and France fascinated the Victorians who loved sporting prowess and feats of endurance. The first serious attempts began in 1872.

This new exhibition looks at Channel swimmers from Captain Webb right up to today and includes the heyday of Channel swimming in the 1950s when sponsored races were held.

For more information on the exhibition, click here.

Or for more information on Channel swimmers see the Dover Museum Channel Swimming Archive, by clicking here.

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