Paddy Conaghan (83) takes to the seas again for charity

Arranmore islander Paddy Conaghan has started his latest swim marathon.

The 83-year-old set off on Sunday when beginning the challenge at Loch Eamhnaigh, Arranmore Island.

On Monday, Paddy took on Lough Gill in Couty Leitrim to coincide with his 83rd birthday.

He was in Sligo on Tuesday and will take on Achill on Wednesday before moving onto the County Mayo coast on Thursday.

This is his third successive year to take on the ‘Ducking and Diving’ challenge for charity. He will brave lakes in each of the 32 counties in an expedition expected to last six weeks,

This year, Paddy will donate the proceeds of his swims to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

“I am thrilled to once again take on this exciting challenge, swimming across the many lakes dotting the landscape of our 32 counties, all in support of the IMNDA,” he said.

Paddy Conaghan presented with a cake for his birthday at Lough Gill

“It won’t be easy, it’s bitterly cold, but the generosity and support of donors and well-wishers spurs me on and enables us to make a real difference in the lives of those battling MND.”

The person challenge invites supporters and well-wishers to join Paddy at various lakes across the country to cheer him on as he takes the plunge.

His journey and progress can be followed on his Facebook page where details of his next swims are posted daily.

Last year, he was given a Man of the Year award by the World Open Water Swimming Association having raised €104,400 for mental health charities.