A Frenchman whose arms and legs had to be amputated following an electrical accident has begun an attempt to swim the English Channel. Philippe Croizon said he felt mentally prepared before setting off from Folkestone Harbour in Kent. The 42-year-old, who swims using prosthetic legs, hopes to complete the 34 kilometers challenge in 24 hours. Sixteen years ago, Croizon suffered a severe electric shock while removing a television aerial from a roof and doctors were forced to amputate his limbs. He has been preparing for the challenge for two years.