A PAIR of celebrated Olympic athletes are encouraging people to sign up to a charity swimming event.

Team GB heroes Mark Foster and Duncan Goodhew want people in Bolton to sign up to Swimathon, the world’s biggest annual fundraising swim, to raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie.

Taking place from 29 to 31 March, swimmers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to sign up to take part at pools, including the Jason Kenny Centre and Horwich Leisure Centre.

World, European and Commonwealth champion Foster said: “I’m very proud to be supporting Swimathon 2019 and I hope everyone looking to set themselves a challenge signs up. Whether you’re just learning or are an experienced swimmer already, there’s a challenge for you.

“Swimming is fantastic for your health and wellbeing as it helps to keep fit. As you train, you build stamina and speed, and as it’s a low impact sport, the chances of injury are low while also good for recovery if you’re coming back from injury.”

Goodhew, Olympic gold medalist and president of Swimathon, said: “It has been a real joy to see Swimathon develop and mature into the great event it is today. Swimathon gives everyone a chance to get active with friends and family, whilst doing some good at the same time. I am so proud that Swimathon gives so many people the chance to enjoy the water, get swimming and set themselves a challenge.”

For more information and to sign up now, visit www.Swimathon.org.