DUNCAN Goodhew will be joining youngsters from a Darlington primary school at the launch of a major swimming event.

The former Olympic star will be launching the regional heat of this year's BT Swimathon, at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington.

Children from Dodmire Junior School will be using the time they have for their weekly swimming lessons to take part in a mini relay race with staff from the town's BT office.

Nationally, the Swimathon, from March 19 to 25, hopes to raise £2m for cancer charities, with 40,000 taking part at 500 pools in the country.

Swimmers can do any distance they choose, up to 5,000m. People can also take part as members of a team.

The launch will take place on Tuesday, January 30, from 10am to noon.

For details, or to take part, contact the customer services staff at the Dolphin Centre on (01325) 388410