SWIMMERS are set to take the plunge for charity at Durham’s annual Swimathon.

It will be held at the Freemans Quay Leisure Centre on Saturday and Sunday, November 23 and 24.

The Swimathon is organised jointly by The Rotary Club of Durham Charity Fund and The Mayor of Durham’s Charity and typically raises more than £6,000.

Teams made up of individuals representing local charities are invited to swim to raise sponsorship money for their own causes and the two sponsor’s charities, 1 Voice North East and the St Margaret’s Centre.

Rotary Club of Durham president Martin Leake said: “The annual Swimathon is one of our most popular and successful events, raising money for many worthy community causes.

“We are keen to welcome as many charities as possible to join us this year. All are welcome.”

Durham Mayor Pauline Charlton said: “The Durham City Swimathon is a real highlight of the city’s calendar and is gaining ever more support. The proceeds from the Swimathon are making a tangible difference in many of our local communities and we are delighted to support it.”

Last November, 37 teams with a total of 160 swimmers took part in the event. Among them were teams representing the Treetops children’s unit at the city’s University Hospital of North Durham.

Friends and relatives of children being treated by the unit came from London, Bedford, Birmingham and Nottingham to take part.

In 2012-2013, the Rotary Club of Durham donated £31,000 to local and national charities, raised through events including the Swimathon and Santa’s Sleigh and donations from partner organisations.

Fotr details visit www.durham.rotaryweb.org