THE Wokingham Lions Swimathon returns this summer.
It’s not a race, say the organisers, but a way to have fun while raising money for charity.
Anyone aged eight to 108 can take part in the annual event that offers charities and community groups a low-cost fundraiser.
This year, a new daytime slot should enable schools to take part too.
Pupils aged eight or above on Wednesday, July 16 2025 can take part, but the event is especially aimed at pupils in year 6 moving to secondary school in September, and those in years 11 and 13 finishing their education.
“Taking part in the Swimathon with their fellow pupils, would be a wonderful way to support their school and mark the end of their primary or secondary education,” said a Lions Club spokesperson.
“Last year’s event was very successful, with total funds raised exceeding £12,500, but we thought having it on a Saturday night made it inaccessible for some groups to take part.
“By holding it close to the end of the summer term, we hope that many schools will find this a great opportunity to raise funds.”
Charities and community groups are warmly invited to take part in teams made up of staff, volunteers and friends.
Local businesses with corporate and social responsibility (CSR) policies can also swim on behalf of a local charity.
The team building event aligns with CSR goals, and taking part can demonstrate companies’ dedication to support their local community.
And because many businesses have a match funding policy, this can increase the total amount going to charity.
To take part, organisations recruit a team of up to eight swimmers (all abilities welcome) of friends, family, work colleagues, classmates or willing volunteers.
Teams then register with Wokingham Lions, set up an online giving page, and encourage support for their participation.
The public viewing gallery will be open on the day, so friends and family can come along to support their team.
Entry costs £30 per team, but after that, all funds raised are kept by the group.
With space for just 30 teams, groups are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.
The event will take place at Wokingham Leisure Centre, on Wednesday, July 16, from 10am until 3pm.
Wokingham Lions Club thanks Places Leisure, and Clifton Ingram, for their help and support in bringing The Swimathon to Wokingham, and hopes that schools, charities and businesses will add the event to their annual fundraising programme.
For information, and to register, visit: wokinghamlions.org.uk, follow the Lions on social media, or call: 0345 833738.
