It was all fun and games at 1610 Sports Centre at the weekend, with more than £2,000 being raised for good causes.

The Dorchester Lions Fun Swim definitely lived up to its name and organisers of overwhelmed with community's support.

The popular community event was kick-started by the Mayor, Councillor Susie Hosford, at 2.30pm on Saturday, when five teams dived in to get the team relay session underway.

Throughout the afternoon sponsored teams - including those from Henry Lings, Cerne Valley Scout Group, Chesil Sailability and Dorchester RIOT (who had taken time out from their running schedule to take part in the swim) introduced a competitive element to the event, accompanied by much enthusiastic support from the gallery.

Dorchester Lions were delighted to welcome the three generations of the Hollands family in one of the Henry Lings' teams.

The small pool allowed parent and toddler groups to enjoy a splashing time, followed by energetic sessions of aquarobics and aquafit for the grown-ups.

During the Saturday afternoon Lions were also presented a cheque for £750 to the Cerne Valley Scout Group, who plan to use the funds to maintain and develop the activities of the thriving Beaver, Cub and Scouts.

The group will also purchase equipment for future outdoor expeditions and therefore provide a legacy in memory of Fred Bloomfield, a long-standing Lion who lived in Cerne Abbas and supported village activities for many years. Dorchester Lions were able to make this donation from funds raised at a social evening of music and dance which featured singer Darron Garnett and a supper expertly organised on behalf of the Dorchester Lions by Rosemary Richards and her team.

On Sunday morning additional events at the 1610 Lions Fun Swim included an aqua-hit organised by Sarah Symes. This involved three particularly gruelling water-based exercise lasting over one and a half hours.

The Fun Swim was brought to a successful close on Sunday evening when six teams of varying ages from West Dorset Warriors incorporated the event into their training schedule.

Andy Rose from Dorchester Lions wanted to thank all participants of the Fun Swim, team captains and session organisers for all their help.

For more information and photos visit lionsdorchester.org.uk

If you are interested in finding out what Lions do in the community call Tony on 07503 791402