SWIMMERS of all abilities and ages came together to pool their resources, raising more than £12,000 for charities around Taunton Deane.

It was for the annual Taunton Soroptimist Swimathon which took place at Taunton School over the weekend (February 18 and 19).

Overall, 55 teams took part in the event, which this year celebrated its 29th anniversary.

There were teams from schools, the Hydrographic Office, solicitors, accountants and the Taunton Food Bank to name a few.

This year the event was raising funds for the Taunton Association for the Homeless, Stand Against Violence, Apple FM and a mother and baby home in the Taunton area.

All of the charities the sponsorship money is going towards also took part, and the swimathon was opened by Taunton Deane Mayor cllr Vivienne Stock-Williams and her concert Ian Stock-Williams.

Swimathon co-ordinator Christine Briggs, said: "This really was a full good event, with everyone having a fun time raising money for local good causes.

In total 370 people took part in the event including the non-swimming team captains and 2955 laps were swum.

"The Hydro Sharks managed to swim the most laps reaching 86 laps in total.

"The amount pledged so far is £12,286.02, and we expect this total to rise when all of the money is in.

"A huge thank you to everyone, whether they took part, sponsored, or came to support us.

"A special thanks to all of our sponsors, especially Taunton School who looked after us so well."

Community answers

Did you take part in the Swimathon?

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From Carol Lloyd

What is your response?HSBC Taunton after completing the Swimathon wearing our medals with pride

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Somerset County Gazette: HSBC Taunton after completing the Swimathon wearing our medals with prideHSBC Taunton after completing the Swimathon wearing our medals with pride