A CHARITY swimathon to raise money for good causes has been launched.

Mayor of Durham Councillor John Lethbridge met with members of Durham’s Rotary Club at Freeman’s Quay Leisure Centre recently to launch the annual event.

Now in its 11th year, it raises over £6,000 a year for local charities.

Participants are invited to make up a team of between four to six swimmers from in and around Durham, who will swim as many lengths of the pool as they can in 30 minutes in order to raise money.

President of the Rotary Club of Durham Tony Ford said: “The annual Swimathon is one of our most popular and successful events, raising money for many worthy community causes. The event is open to all, and we are keen to welcome individuals, charities, friends and family to come and take part, to help raise funds for charities of their choice. All are welcome.”

The event takes place on Saturday and Sunday November 17 and 18 and entry forms are available the Freemans Quay or durham.rotaryweb.org.

Forms should be returned to: The Event Secretary, Rotary Club of Durham, 8, Laburnum Avenue, Durham DH1 4HA or emailed to costellorotary@gmail.com