Mercedes Gleitze
(1900-1981)

Died aged 80

Mercedes Carey (née Gleitze; 18 November 1900 – 9 February 1981) was a British professional swimmer. She was the first known person to swim the Straits of Gibraltar and the first British woman to swim the English Channel. The name of Mercedes Gleitze was used to market Rolex's new waterproof case, the "Oyster". She established endurance records for swimming including a record of 46 hours in 1932. She was able to raise funds to found the Mercedes Gleitze Homes in Leicester via sponsorship. The Mercedes Gleitze charity is now linked to the Family Action charity.

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Commemorated on 2 plaques

This plaque is dedicated to Miss Mercedes Gleitz who was the first person to swim The Wash on 20th June 1929 after an epic 13 hour 17 minute swim and commemorates the 75th anniversary of her remarkable achievement

Hunstanton Beach, Heacham, United Kingdom where they swam

Mercedes Gleitz 1900-1981 pioneer long-distance swimmer and philanthropist was born here

124 Freshfield Road, Brighton, United Kingdom where they was born (1900)