Fundraisers made a splash in aid of charity. 


The Lions Club of Dorchester and District held its 34th annual charity swim event at the weekend. 


Previously known as the Swimathon, the newly named Fun Swim saw swimmers take the plunge at Dorchester Sports Centre on Saturday and Sunday in aid of various charities – though the main beneficiary of the event was mental health charity Dorset Mind. 


Andy Rose, of the Lions Club, said: “It’s been known as the Swimathon for more than 30 years and in that time has raised more than £200,000. The opportunity came to collaborate with 1610 and we thought it was the right time for a freshen up. 


“The Fun Swim gives people the opportunity to raise money for good local causes and the emphasis is on the fun.”


The sports centre's pool was split into four different sessions aimed at varying ages, team sizes or individuals, plus a parent and child event.


Age categories for the event were divided into parent with child aged under 10, children aged between 10 and 16 and those aged over 17. 


The sessions gave all participants the chance to swim and raise money for their own good cause or charity.


In addition, one session each day was a timed fun challenge which included obstacles in a pool assault course.


In addition to the charity Fun Swim, there was a host of free activities at the centre throughout the weekend including mini class tasters and demonstrations, as well as tours of the sports centre including the new fitness suite.


The event was officially started by Mayor of Dorchester, Cllr Tim Harries. He said: “We always get behind this; we all need to do our bit. 


“The Lions are raising money for Mind and this is important because a huge proportion of people in the county have some sort of mental health issue and they need support. 


“It’s not something people think about a lot but it could be anything - just cup of coffee and a chat - things like that make a huge difference.


“The work of the Lions volunteers is appreciated. Life would not go on without people doing things like this.”