An air cadet from St Albans has completed a cross-Channel relay swim.

Ross Ferreira was one of six who took part in the 20-mile swim between Dover and Calais, last month.

The 16-year-old trained for almost a year for the event, that took the team just under 12 hours to complete.

He said: “I started off in the dark, kicking off the relay at around midnight. It was a bit hairy and I met a few jellyfish, but overall it was a good experience and we finished in a fantastic time.”

After going through a rigorous selection process in September 2015, Mr Ferreira began training with the City of St Albans Swimming Club.

He was selected as the first team member to enter the water in Dover and also completed a further one-hour swim at 5.30am.

Major Kenny Everett, St Albans School’s commanding officer, said: “Ross’ achievement is a true example of what hard work can achieve.

“It was a mammoth task and to have been given the honour of first swim and to complete it in a very fast time is testament to Ross’s ability and character.”

Dawn McCafferty, commandant of the air cadets, said: “I’ve been really impressed by the team’s fitness and commitment to this challenge, and especially how fast they are.

“I am delighted to also pass on personal congratulations from the chief of the Air Staff, air chief marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, to the team on their superb achievement.”

The challenge, which is supported and sponsored by the RAF Benevolent Fund, is one of many events that the RAF Air Cadets are holding as part of their anniversary celebrations.