Campaigner and mermaid crowdfunds to publish children’s book

After rescuing a cow while swimming the length of the non-tidal River Thames dressed as a mermaid in 2018 for a plastic awareness campaign, adventurer and campaigner Lindsey Cole has embarked on her latest mission: a crowdfunding project to help publish a children’s book based on her story.

Having already shared her adventures with hundreds of school children Lindsey will use the funds to donate copies of The Mermaid and the Cow to schools in the hope that it will inspire children to help save the planet from plastic pollution.

“Whilst wearing my tail, I have been stroked, squealed after, demanded I read story after story, and had many secrets whispered into my ear,” she says. “It’s also been a great engaging tool to share an important message and inspire children to help save our planet.”

Once the book is published, Lindsey also plans to run environmental and storytelling workshops that will encourage students to think about their plastic consumption through fun and engaging activities.

“Having lost all my work during COVID, I finally managed to sit down to write and illustrate my story. I’ve been sharing the story with thousands of children for the last two years but with your support, children will be able to have their very own copy to enjoy at school and at home.”

A percentage of the proceeds made from The Mermaid and the Cow will be donated to the plastic pollution tackling charity We Swim Wild, a charity which is undertaking essential micro research in National Parks and urban regions across the UK.