Swimmers of all ages made a splash for charity at this year’s annual Swimathon, held in May at Highworth Recreation Centre.
Organised by the Rotary Club, the event successfully raised an impressive £6,850, supporting a range of local good causes, with a significant portion handed over to one of Swindon’s most cherished facilities – the Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool.
The presentation took place on 4th August during a club meeting, where Neil Montgomery, Manager of the Hydrotherapy Pool, was welcomed by Rotary Club President Steve Davison. A cheque for £3,925 – the Pool’s share of the total funds – was officially presented, representing half of the proceeds raised by the participating swim teams.
Mr Montgomery remarked: “This is a fantastic amount of money and we are so grateful to the Rotary Club and all the entrants of the Swimathon. We desperately need to renew the hoists which lift disabled people in and out of the water and this money will be used for that.”
The Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool, based at Jefferies Avenue in Swindon, has been providing vital hydrotherapy treatments to people across Wiltshire since 1979. As a fully accessible facility, the pool plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, pain relief, and mobility for those referred by a GP or health professional – catering to individuals of all ages and conditions.
The Swimathon gave teams of swimmers the chance to raise sponsorship for a charity of their choice, with the added bonus of matching support for the Rotary’s chosen beneficiary. Another local group, the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group, also received £250 from the event.
As a gesture of thanks, Amazon vouchers were awarded to the three swimmers who raised the most sponsorship individually. Top of the leaderboard was Rosaline Baker with a remarkable £458.75, closely followed by sisters Eleanor and Jessica Chappell, who raised £426.25 and £320.00 respectively. Every swimmer who took part received a medal and certificate as a token of appreciation.
The Swimathon was completely free to enter, once again proving that community spirit and charitable giving can go hand-in-hand. Plans are already in motion for next year’s event, due to return in May 2026.
Those interested in supporting or joining future events are encouraged to stay in touch with the Rotary Club for updates.
