SATURDAY saw the return of an event that is always certain to make a splash - the Basingstoke Lions Swimathon.

The annual event made a return to the Sports Centre for the 36th time in the Basingstoke branch’s history, raising money for good causes.

Teams of up to four took to the water to swim around the centre's pool in a relay-style, while raising cash for their chosen cause, or giving money back to the Basingstoke Lions, which provides aid, both financial and physical, to groups.

This year’s event saw four teams of four from various organisations take part.

They included members from a disabled swimming team, the Strikers football team, and a crossfit organisation.

This year, the event raised a total of £750.

Swimathon event organiser Tony Bamberger said: “While we were slightly down on numbers this year, we still managed to raise a few hundred pounds that we didn’t have previously, and it all adds up.

“Some of the money will be going to cancer research, which will be a big help, and some will be helping us to help other charities out.

“We have been supporting all manner of charities and other organisations such as May Place and the women’s refuge.”