Macclesfield Castle Rotary Club once again held its annual charity Swimathon, and local MP, David Rutley, was on hand to support this much-valued local event.
Some 40 swimming teams, comprising around 240 competitors, took part in the five-hour long Swimathon, held at Macclesfield Leisure Centre. Each team of swimmers, of between four and six people, were encouraged to complete as many lengths of the pool as possible, with the sponsorship proceeds shared equally between the entrant's nominated charity, and those supported by Macclesfield Castle Rotary Club. It is hoped that over £6,000 will have been raised for local charities.
As well as David, the swimmers were also cheered on by the Mayor of Macclesfield, Cllr Adam Schofield, and their families, friends and other well-wishers. Among the teams represented were local charities such as: Speaking Up, Speaking Out; Reach Out And Recover; and East Cheshire Eye Society. Also taking part were local scout groups, teams from local churches, and groups from schools in the local community.
Since it was first held 20 years ago, the Rotary Club Swimathon has raised well over £150,000 for local and international charities, thanks to the generous support of local residents. Among local charities to have benefitted are: the Rossendale Trust; East Cheshire Hospice; and the Macclesfield Disability Forum, as well as national charities like the NSPCC and Childline.
The Club also provides support to the community in other ways, for example, by helping with road closures for community events like the Barnaby Festival, providing equipment to the local Men In Sheds, and funding the installation of defibrillators in Macclesfield town centre. Local residents interested in joining the Club can contact Rotarian Alec Johnston, by email on johnstonmkt@talktalk.net.
Speaking after the event, David said, "It was great to see so many local charities and groups taking part in another exciting Swimathon. I am grateful to Macclesfield Castle Rotary Club for once again organising this much-loved fixture in the local calendar, and to all those who participated and supported it."