A police officer will attempt to become the fastest woman to ever swim across the Wash today.

Eastern Daily Press: Donna Flannagan, from Dereham, will attempt to swim across the Wash in record time. Picture: SuppliedDonna Flannagan, from Dereham, will attempt to swim across the Wash in record time. Picture: Supplied (Image: Archant)

Donna Flannagan, a police constable from Dereham, is aiming to swim the 14 miles from Skegness to Old Hunstanton.

Mrs Flannagan, 39, is making the attempt this morning, on Sunday July 28, and hopes to make the crossing wearing a wetsuit in under seven hours. She will be supported by a boat captained by a friend, who will find the best way through the often turbulent conditions.

She said: "It's down to the captain and the crew to get you across the best way.

"There are so many 'what ifs' It's a really challenging swim because the conditions can change quite a lot."

Ms Flannagan has competed in many open water swim events and finished second in a 22km (13.5mi) swim last year Sweden.

She is part of the Walruses swimming group, which is based at Leziate near King's Lynn.