Come on in! Make a splash for this worthwhile charity (From Barry And District News)

Come on in! Make a splash for this worthwhile charity

BARRY Leisure Centre will be one of the participating pools when a charity fund-raising swimming event celebrates its 20th anniversary.

It is hoped that this year's annual Swim-athon, the country's big swim, will raise 2m for NCH, the children's charity.

Barry is one of 500 participating pools, and those wishing to support the local event on Thursday and Friday, March 23 and 24, will join 25,000 other swimmers across the UK.

Whatever an individual's age or swimming ability, Swimathon has a challenge to suit - from a few laps to 5,000 metres.

Vale Leisure swimming development officer, Linda Smith, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be holding the 2006 Swimathon at our pool, and encourage everyone in the community to become involved.

"Whether you are aiming to break a swimming record, fulfil a personal challenge, or bring the family down for a fun day out, by signing up, you can help raise funds for NCH.

"You can also get fit and have fun at the same time."

Eighty percent of all money raised will go directly to NCH, which is the leading UK provider of services to disabled children and their families, children's services in rural areas, family and community centres and services for young people leaving care.

The additional 20 percent of funds will be distributed by The Swimathon Founda-tion, which provides funding for smaller, local charities and other not-for-profit organisations.

It is possible to swim as an individual or a team.

Entrants must be aged five and over and the form details how you could qualify to receive fund-raising gifts.

Swimathon times: March 23, 1pm-4pm - normal swimming will also take place; March 24, 7pm-10pm, with the children's pool closed for the duration.