Vale Farm hosts swim for cancer charity

Vale Farm is the place to be this April if you love swimming and want to have fun raising money for a good cause.

The sports centre will play host to the world's biggest swim in support of Marie Curie Cancer Care between April 16 to 19.

The centre is one of 500 nationwide where this year's Swimathon will be raising funds for over 2,000 specialist nurses to care for the terminally ill at home.

Over the past two years, 30,000 swimmers have taken part, and have generated more than £3 million. This year, organisers hope to raise even more money by encouraging everyone to participate in the biggest event of its kind.

Swimathon 2009 is open to everyone. To enter, swimmers must register online at www.swimathon.org where accomplished swimmers can choose the ultimate five kilometre challenge, while intermediate swimmers can swim a 2.5 kilometre distance.

For those who swim occasionally, there is a 1.5 kilometre option. People interested in joining forces with work colleagues, friends and family can take on the 5 kilometre challengewhich can be completed by a team of up to five people.

Costs are £9 for single swimmers or £15 for a team. A concessionary half price is available for the unemployed, under 16s, registered disabled and senior citizens.

With less than three weeks to go, Vale Farm would love to see more people making a splash for charity. But for those who prefer to cheer on from the sidelines, they can still do their bit by going to 'sponsor a swimmer' on www.swimathon.org or by volunteering. Email info@swimathon.org for more information.

For more information about the event, or information on general swim times and prices, contact Vale Farm Sports Centre.