THORNBURY'S fundraising Swimarathon - otherwise known at the Big Splash - is fast approaching (March 4-6)) and anyone thinking of taking the plunge should book a place now.

Since its launch 20 years ago, the event - organised by the town's Rotary Club - has become enormously popular and well over £200,000 has been rasied for many local and regional charities.

Last year's Swimarathon was another great success, raising more than £10,000 with major donations going to the Children's Hospice South West and Thornbury's Steamleaze play area project. Many smaller charities and fundraising schemes also benefited.

This year's main beneficiary will be the Guild of Friends of the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

Organiser Colin Ingamells said the Thornbury Leisure Centre pool would be available for three hours every evening over the three days of the event (6.15pm-9.15pm on the Friday and 7.15pm-10.15pm on the Saturday and Sunday).

"Bearing in mind the popularity of the event it's advisable to register as soon as possible, particularly as this year is the 20th and is also the 100th anniverary of Rotary International," he said.

"Because it's such a special year, we want to break all records to support the excellent work of the Guild of Friends and a range of other local charities."

The Swimarathon involves relay teams swimming as many lengths as they can in 55 minutes. Support from local primary and secondary schools and from local companies and organisations means the event attracts swimmers aged from five to 85.

"You don't have to be a great swimmer and you don't have to be fast," said Colin. "Just be part of a team of up to six people, get some friends, relatives or work colleagues to sponsor you and join in the fun. This year we'd like to fill all the lanes for every seassion over the three nights."

To recognise the effort made by everyone involved, this year, for the first time, plaques will be awarded to the team raising the most money and the team swimming the most lengths.

Anyone wishing to enter a team, help with a donation or sponsor a team, should contact Colin Ingamells on 077409 82717 or Richard Hiscock on 01454 412494.

Alternatively, write to Thornbury Rotary Club, c/o Colin Ingamells, 22 Jubilee Drive, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 2YG.