Woking Swimathon, an annual fundraising event organised by Rotary Club of Woking, will be held at the Pool in the Park on Sunday, 18 October.

Last year the money raised, more than £18,000, was divided between the Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, Freemantles School, Woking Community First Responders, SERV Surrey & London - a charity that transports blood products - Meath School and Woking Snorkel & Scuba.

The Swimathon is now in its nineteenth year and during that period it has raised more than £250,000 for local charities.

Up to 60 teams can take part and teams may include up to six members. Each team is allocated a lane and its members take turns in swimming lengths. Every team member invites sponsorship for their team.

Any confident swimmer who is at least eight years old can take part, so teams representing local schools (pupils, staff and parents) can be involved, and teams from charities, companies and other local organisations are also encouraged to make the event a success. All team members who swim will be awarded a commemorative medal.

However, organising the Swimathon takes significant resources.

Rotary Club of Woking always tries to keep costs to a minimum and volunteers do all the work, but inevitably there are some expenses.

Since the Swimathon began Trident Honda, in Ottershaw, has been the main sponsor of the Swimathon and meets a substantial share of these costs. But this still leaves some money to be raised and further sponsorship would be greatly welcomed.

All the money raised will again go to local charities, including the Woking & Sam Beare Hospice and other good causes chosen by Rotary Club members.

Entry and sponsorship enquiries should be made to Terry Smith on 01483 762832 or at [email protected]. There is also a website at rotarywoking.co.uk