“For many years, I thought I wouldn’t be able to do this. Hopefully, this can inspire people to have a go,” said Barratt. The Leamington Spa native previously won two golds, two silvers, and a bronze in swimming at the Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000 Paralympics. She’s also believed to be the first blind person to swim across Lake Geneva.

Barratt’s Channel swim, accomplished on 28 August, has raised £17,000  (€20,100) so far for British Blind Sport, a charity that helps visually impaired people access sports across the UK. "They made my dreams come true. I thought it was appropriate to fundraise for them and give something back," she added.

Reflecting on the swim, Barratt, 47, described it as "magical." “It’s one of those days in your life which you never forget. It gives me a really warm feeling inside, a satisfied feeling. I’m the first blind woman to swim the Channel. I struggle to comprehend (it) sometimes.”

Barratt had trained for three years to swim the Channel, even using a "whiskey barrel full of cold water" in her garden to build tolerance to cold temperatures when she couldn’t access open water.

While navigating the Channel, she wore bone-conducting headsets to guide her through obstacles like wood, seaweed, and jellyfish. Barratt was supported by a dedicated team, and the response to her achievement has been heartwarming. “I’ve had strangers come up to me and say well done. It’s been really nice.”

The experience has also boosted her confidence. “Being visually impaired can be really isolating, so hopefully this swim can raise awareness for the charity and inspire people to get involved in sports,” she said.

Alaina MacGregor, British Blind Sport’s chief executive, praised Barratt’s efforts. “We are so proud of Mel on this amazing achievement. She has shown incredible determination and commitment in preparing for this challenge.”