Four of the country’s top swimmers set the fastest 5km team time in a fundraising event at Crystal Palace.

Captained by olympic silver medallist Keri-Anne Payne, the team dived into Crystal Palace National Sports Centre and completed the challenge in 58 minutes on April 16, a swimathon record.

The team launched a fundraising event in which 20,0000 swimmers across the country raised money for Marie Curie Cancer Care and the Swimathon Foundation.

Swimming alongside Keri-Anne Payne, Jessica Thielmann, Emma Graham and Danielle Hall-Jackson was former Blue Peter presenter Zoe Salmon.

Keri-Anne Payne said: “I’m so pleased we could set a new Swimathon record and help publicise this year’s event.

"I’ve had a great time meeting all the people who have voluntarily put themselves through the kind of training schedule that I’ve had to get used to over the years.”

Zoe Salmon said: “Swimming is my favourite way to keep fit and feel good.

"I’m always happy to offer my best wishes and support to anyone who shares my passion for the pool."

To find out more or to sign up for a Swimathon session at the nearest participating pool between, either go to www.swimathon.org or call 0845 36 700 36.