Join the 2014 Swimarathon

This year, a charity providing specially trained dogs to help people with disabilities to enjoy greater independence will benefit from the Swimarathon, which is organised by Haywards Heath Lions Club at The Dolphin leisure centre.

The popular event involves teams of six swimmers with a non-swimming captain. Each team takes part in a sponsored swim over 55 minutes with team members taking it in turns to complete a length.

In 2014, the 31st year of the event, the charity chosen by Haywards Heath Lions is Canine Partners based in West Sussex.

Fifty per cent of the money raised will go to the charity, with the remainder going to good causes chosen by swimmers.

This year’s Swimarathon takes place on Good Friday, April 18.

Chairman of the Lions’ Swimarathon Committee, John Bowman said: “Canine Partners is an amazing organization which helps people with disabilities to a better quality of life.

“The partner dogs provide practical day-to-day assistance with tasks that may be difficult, painful or otherwise impossible to perform.

“They are trained to open and close doors and cupboards; to help with dressing; to press buttons and switches; to raise alarms in an emergency; to unload washing machines and tumble driers and much more besides.

“The charity also works with a number of other organisations, including Help for Heroes.”

To take part in the Swimarathon you must complete and return an entry form.

You can request a form by emailing: [email protected]

If your team wishes to swim at a particular time of day, or if you have any special needs, please request an application form as early as possible because slots are booked very quickly.

n If you require further information please contact John Bowman on: 0845 8335807.