SWIMMERS are being invited to take part in the last ever Chairman of Craven District Council's swim challenge.

The fundraiser is run every year, raising money for the council chairman's chosen charity, and with Craven District Council going in April, following local government reorganisation, this will be the last.

Running from Monday, January 16 until March 5, at Craven Leisure pool, Aireville Park, swimmers of all abilities can choose from four different distances to achieve bronze, silver, gold or platinum awards.

Chairman Councillor Simon Myers hopes people will take up the challenge to raise money for theTwo Ridings Community Foundation – a charity which helps people and organisations fund causes that matter, strengthening the region’s communities and improving people’s lives.

Cllr Myers said: “The cost of living crisis is leading to more people relying on charity support to survive. However, so many charities have struggled through the pandemic with a loss of fundraising opportunities. I’m really pleased to be able to do something which I hope will raise as much as possible to support the work of Two Ridings who are going to great lengths to help needy people during the current cost of living crisis.

“I would encourage kind-hearted members of the Craven community to take part in this fun initiative for a deserving cause and for those who can’t, to dig deep. The swim is open to everyone of all ages and all abilities.”

A spokesperson for Two Ridings added: “We really appreciate that Cllr Myers has chosen Two Ridings Cost of Living Crisis Fund as his charity.

"Every penny raised will be used to support people in the Craven district and the local charities that do so much to support people especially right now.

"Our Crisis Fund has been set up to give people an opportunity to donate whatever they can afford to support other people struggling because of rising costs of energy bills, fuel, food and other daily living costs. We accept any donations to the fund, including people passing on some or all of their Council Tax rebate or winter fuel allowance. All money donated to the fund will be distributed as grants to charitable partner organisations with a proven track record who will pass this on to people in the Craven district in the best way to help and support them at this time of crisis.”

Sponsorship forms and more information can be obtained from the reception desk at Craven Leisure, or online at: https://www.cravendc.gov.uk/craven-leisure/