The Malden Centre’s Swimathon, in aid of Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie, is just around the corner.

Led by a team of staff members from the centre, this year’s event will take place on Saturday, April 28, from 6pm to 9pm.

The distances include 1.5k, 2k and 5K and swimmers will have the full three hours in which to complete their sponsored challenge.

Teams, made up of two to five people, can also sign up to take on their chosen lengths in a relay format.

The 2018 event is introducing a new Swimathon challenge for those who haven’t taken a dip in a while.

The 400m swim is a shorter distance but the same challenge and “designed to remind everyone of all ages you why they love swimming so much”.

Adult education manager Sue Wilson is taking part in Swimathon for the first time, alongside her colleagues in Team Malden Centre.

She said: “It’s great to be part of such an important, nationwide initiative and every year we're always so impressed by how many local people sign up to help funds for such an amazing and important cause.

“So, this year, it was a case of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them’.

“It’ll be out of the comfort zone for many us but we’ve all been in training and can’t wait to give it a go.”

Olympic Gold Medallist and Swimathon president, Duncan Goodhew MBE has also added some words of support: “Swimathon is about you and the Swimathon challenge that’s right for you.

“And you won’t be alone, as many other people of all abilities will be there taking part with you for the first time.”

Everyone signing up to the Swimathon will be entered into a free raffle, with the chance to win a three-month swim membership and other great prizes.

To sign up go here