Ealing Council and local leisure provider Everyone Active are encouraging local people to make a splash in the annual, national Swimathon challenge for Cancer Research and Marie Curie.

Northolt Leisure Centre and the Acton Centre are taking part in the world’s biggest charity swim to over the weekend of 27 to 29 April and you can get involved by signing up on the Swimathon website.

This year participants have the option of swimming 400m – the distance is perfect for beginners or for those who haven’t swum in a while but still want to do their bit for charity. There is also the option of swimming 1.5k, 2.5k or 5k, as an individual or 1.5k or 5k as part of a team. It is a great opportunity for swimmers of all ages and abilities to get involved.

Over the last 31 years, more than half a million people across the UK have taken part in the Swimathon, which is world’s biggest charity swim event and has raised over £48m for good causes.

Phil Edwards, Everyone Active’s contract manager said: “It’s always fantastic to see how many people turn up for the annual national Swimathon. Swimming is such a great form of low impact cardiovascular exercise, with many health benefits, and the Swimathon offers a challenge for every level of swimmer.

“Not only is this a great way to support Cancer Research and Marie Curie but it may even inspire you to take up swimming more regularly.”

Councillor Bassam Mahfouz, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for transport, environment, and leisure said: “The Swimathon is such a great opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to have fun and raise funds for some really worthy charities.

“It’s a brilliant way of staying active and discovering how rewarding swimming can be. I encourage as many people as possible get involved, take the plunge, and make a difference to people’s lives.”

The council is encouraging people to be more physically active to improve their health. See the council’s Get Moving campaign for further information and tips on how to become more physically active.