Disaster strikes in one part of the world and open water swimming is affected in another part of the world. Sir Richard Branson’s home on his private island of Necker in the British Virgin Islands was destroyed in a fire.

The fire and its aftermath means that the famous businessman and adventurer will not be joining Ronan Keating in the celebrated 56-mile charity relay swim from across the Irish Sea from Holyhead, in Anglesey, North Wales, to Dublin, Ireland.

Frances Milner, director of supporter-led fund-raising at Cancer Research UK: “Sadly Richard Branson has had to withdraw from Cancer Research UK’s first celebrity challenge, The Samsung Galaxy S II Swim. We’re disappointed but understand that he needs to be with his family after fire devastated their home. He has kindly offered to dedicate a future record-breaking challenge to Cancer Research UK.”

Ronan has injured his hamstring during his training, but said, “I’m not a strong swimmer, but the motivation to learn and raise money for Cancer Research UK was enough for me to sign up. The public’s support is going to be essential in helping us achieve our goal of raising £1 million for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work.”

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