The WMFS chief fire officer, Wayne Brown, said: “Iain’s disappearance is unspeakably sad. We are giving Iain’s family all the support we can at this distressing time. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone close to Iain. He is a highly respected and much-loved colleague and friend to many.”
Hughes, 42, was aiming to raise £21,000 for the British Heart Foundation, Midlands Air Ambulance and Fire Fighters Charity. The Channel crossing is 21 miles, and Hughes was hoping to raise £1,000 for each mile of the swim.
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 