As the train neared the sea, it made the wait seem monotonous, but the cloudless sky and sunshine brought holiday zephires.

The brown stones of the beach and the voluminous sea-green water called out to enter and swim, with no other encouragement. Casting out into the deep brought a minor shock of cold, like a trouble that doesn’t last. The salt, the foam and the gentle swell swaddled the body, to rock into sleep and rest weary city muscles, for as long as possible.

Diving brought the sea floor closer than expected, and the churning hidden forces, chop up the seabed, so that all vision is murky.

Swimming to the right, away from the Arun estury was easy, relaxing and quick, but to turn back meant effort and small progress for out lay. The current was powerful and the long dyke kept the worst of it from sweeping swimmers away.

Calm, confident and comforting…