Swimathon 2026, the world’s largest annual pool-based fundraising event, marks its 40th anniversary this year and is taking place at nearly 500 venues from March 20 to March 22.

Duncan Goodhew, Olympic gold medallist and Swimathon president, said: "It’s incredible to think that, for forty years, Swimathon has brought people together to enjoy the benefits of swimming and raise extraordinary sums for charity."

Since 1986, more than 750,000 participants have taken part in the UK, raising over £55 million for good causes.

This year’s event aims to raise funds for Cancer Research UK, Marie Curie and the Swimathon Foundation.

Swimmers can participate in individual challenges from 500m to a Triple 5k, or join team relays of 1.5k, 2.5k or 5k.

In Norfolk, participating pools include Dereham Leisure Centre, Breckland Leisure Centre in Thetford, Riverside Leisure Centre in Norwich, Victory Swim and Fitness Centre in North Walsham, The Reef Leisure Centre in Sheringham, Waveney Valley Leisure Centre in Bungay, Phoenix Leisure Centre, Marina Leisure Centre in Great Yarmouth and Waterlane Leisure Centre in Lowestoft.

© Eastern Daily Press