FUNDRAISERS will be making a splash as the Dorchester Lions Club holds its 34th annual charity swim event.

The newly named Fun Swim, previously called the Swimarathon, is being held at the Dorchester Sports Centre on Saturday, January 28 and Sunday, January 29 in collaboration with centre operators 1610.

Organisers hope the local community will get behind the event with the usual show of enthusiasm and generosity.

The main beneficiary from this event will be mental health charity Dorset Mind.

A Lions spokesman said: "This year's charity swim event is being called the Lions Fun Swim - with emphasis on the fun!

"Both days of the weekend at the sports centre will be split into four different sessions in the pool, aimed at varying ages, team sizes or individuals, plus a parent and child event.

"These sessions will allow all participants to swim and raise money for their own good cause or charity.

"In addition, one session each day will be a timed fun challenge, racing over obstacles in a pool assault course.

"Age categories for the event have been divided into parent and child under 10, age 10 to 16 and over 17 year and these groups will swim at designated times throughout the weekend."

The age groups are for guidance only and organisers say they can be flexible, although safety will be paramount at all times.

All participants will receive a free goody bag courtesy of 1610.

In addition to the charity Fun Swim there will be a host of free activities taking place 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.

Refreshments will also be available throughout the weekend.

Lion Andy Rose said: "This year we are again fortunate to have use of the excellent swimming pool and facilities at 1610.

"Dorchester Lions are also very grateful to the local community who continue to regularly support our charity events.

"We are hoping that this event will attract lots of entrants who want to have fun and do great work in raising funds for good causes at the same time."

Registration forms are available from Dorchester Sports Centre or the Dorchester Tourist Information Centre.

Alternatively, visit lionsdorchester.org.uk/events/funswim

For more information contact tony.howden@hotmail.co.uk