SWIMMERS in Poole made a big splash for charity, collecting nearly £19,000 for good causes.

Their fundraising at Poole Lions 34th Swimarathon could be boosted to a staggering £24,000 once match funding and GiftAid is added.

Standing down as Swimarathon chair after 18 years, Harold Brown said swimmers and sponsors had “excelled themselves”.

Money goes to Youth Cancer Trust, £5,000, Victoria School, £3,600, Poole Young Carers, £1,000, Home Start South East Dorset, £3,200 and Purple Teardrop Campagin £3,200.

A £250 cheque has been given to one of the Mayor’s charities.