SWIMMERS are being encouraged to take the plunge and get involved in an international swimathon next weekend.

Bracknell Leisure Centre, which is run by Everyone Active in partnership with Bracknell Forest Council, will be taking part in the World's Biggest Charity Swim between Friday, April 27 and Sunday, April 29 to raise money for Cancer Research and Marie Curie.

For the last 31 years, around half a million swimmers across the UK have taken part in the event, which has raised more than £48 million for good causes.

This year, participants have the option to swim 400m, the perfect distance for beginners or those who haven't swum in a while but still want to get involved. Other distances include 1.5km, 2.5km or 5km as an individual, or 1.5km or 5km as part of a team.

Jacqui Tillman, Group Swim Manager at Everyone Active, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the annual Swimathon once again. Swimming is a fantastic way to improve your health and wellbeing and is accessible for all ages and abilities.

“The Swimathon offers a challenge for every level of swimmer and is a great way to support Cancer Research and Marie Curie. We look forward to welcoming swimmers from the local community to our swimming pool to raise money and awareness for these charities while getting active.”

For more information and to sign up, visit https://swimathon.org/enter-now