Dive in and help charities
Schools, youth clubs, Scouts and Guides and other community groups are being urged to take the plunge for charity this weekend.
Washington Forge Rotary Club is holding its annual Swimathon fundraiser at Washington Leisure Centre on Sunday.
This year’s good cause is the Autism Outreach Team, based at Columbia Grange School.
It works with children, parents, teachers and other professionals to provide support to help young people with the condition at home and in education.
Rotary spokesman Bob Twist said the club had takhad en the decision in recent years to concentrate on children’s charities.
“This is the fourth year we have done it and we have increased the amount of money we have raised each year,” he said.
“We have been getting more people signing up and hopefully we should beat our target again this year.”
This year’s good cause was suggested by a member of the group.
“We put it to the members each year,” explained Bob. “One of the members a friend whose son is autistic and who had been singing the praises of how good the Outreach team is.”
All money raised by the Swimathon will be split three ways.
Forty per cent will go to the nominated charity, the Rotary group will keep 30% for other good causes and organisations taking part will be able to keep the remaining 30% for their own use.
Teams wishing to take part must have a minimum of four swimmers and a maximum of six. To register, visit the club’s website washingtonforgerotary.org. uk.