Swimmers urged to go in at deep end for charity

Washington Rotary Club president Dave Neville, is joined by swimmers at Washington Leisure Centre, and secretary Bill Hopps, centre assistant manager Dave Hazard and past president Bob Twist to launch their swimathon.

Swimmers are being urged to take the plunge for charity next month.

Washington Forge Rotary Club is holding a fund-raising Swimathon at the town’s new leisure centre on Sunday, September 20.

Teams of between four and six swimmers will be sponsored to complete as many lengths of the pool as possible in 30 minutes.

The club is raising money for two local charities – Washington Mind, which works with people who have mental health issues, and Small Steps – Seize the Day, which raises awareness of epilepsy, especially in children, and supports families who have babies and toddlers with the condition across the North East.

Anyone taking part in the event will also be able to collect for their own charity.

“This is the first event of its kind that we have organised,’ said spokesman Bob Twist.

“We have chosen two wonderful local charities but everyone taking part will be able to keep some of the money they raise for their own worthy causes.

“We have decided on a 30, 30, 40 split – each of our two nominated charities will get 30 per cent of the money donated and everyone taking part will be able to keep 40 per cent of whatever they raise for their own charity.”

Anyone wanting more details of the event or to register to take part in the Swimathon, visit the club’s website at www.washingtonforgerotary.org.uk