11 pictures as Lytham St Annes Lions Swimarathon's return raises thousands of pounds for charities

The event at St Annes YMCA Pool has raised tens of thousands of pounds for good causes over more than three decades but hasn’t been held since January 2020 because of the Covid pandemic.

Around 40 teams took part on it’s return and although the exact amount raised is still to be finalised, the money will be split between Brian House Children’s Hospice and the Bone Cancer Research Trust, which has played a key role in helping Lytham teenager Phoebe Daniel back to fitness after being diagnosed with bone cancer.

Phoebe herself entered a team of schoolfriends from St Bede’s, Lytham in the event, while Brian House was also represented, as were a host of other organisations across the Fylde coast, including previous recipient charity, the Edward Dee fund.

Fylde mayor Coun Ben Aitken signalled the start of a packed day of swimming and Joe Woods, organiser of the event on behalf of the Lions, said: “It was a great day – so good to be back after three years away. Entries were a little down on previous times, as some people are still a little hesitant after Covid but the feedback was great and we hope it will be even bigger and better next year. Thanks to everyone who took part and to our sponsor Beaverbrooks.”