CHARITY fundraisers will be making a splash in Weymouth Harbour again on Christmas Day.

The Lions Club’s festive swim has gone from strength to strength over the years and organisers say they are gearing up for their biggest yet.

Club spokesman Richard Burgess said: “The Lions Day Christmas swim has grown from 20-odd people taking part when it started around 20 years ago to over 240 people last year and we’re expecting even more this year.

“I think publicity and word of mouth has got us to this stage.

“For a lot of people it’s something fun to do between opening presents and having their turkey.

“It’s a nice community event.

“People come and meet friends, neighbours and colleagues and people feel they’re doing something for the community.”

Mr Burgess added: “The benefit to the Lions Club is more modest than it is for other charities.

“The swimmers have supported everyone from Weldmar to Help for Heroes and Julia’s House to national charities.

“We expect to have four or five separate swims, including possibly two family swims.

“Normally, we collect a couple of hundred pounds in the crowd and make over £1,000 from entry fees for the Lions.”

Mr Burgess said new arrangements have been made this year.

Registration will begin at 9.30am at the Old Rooms Inn.

Organisers have said they will not be transporting competitors by boat across the harbour this year and the swim will be divided into strict categories.

There will be at least one family fun swim plus a competitive swim for juniors, a competitive women’s swim and a competitive swim, all limited to 50 places.

Organisers will be using a new PA system during the event and there will be a landing pontoon provided to make getting out of the water easier and safer.

There is a £5 entry fee for over-16s and swimming starts at 11am.

Lifeguards will be on hand and showering and changing facilities will be available afterwards.

The prize-giving will be held as soon as possible after the event at the Royal Dorset Yacht Club on the harbourside.

Entrants are encouraged to raise as much money as possible for their chosen charities and details are available at weymouthlions.co.uk