Swimmers honoured at Melton Lions presentation night

Everyone who had been involved in the 2017 Swimarathon was invited along to share their experience, congratulate individuals and groups receiving awards and enjoy a buffet prepared by Lesley Raisen.

The 17th Swimarathon event was held at Waterfield Leisure Centre in April, and raised over £4,000 for local causes. In all, 19 teams comprising of 108 swimmers took part. The average number of lengths swam by each team was 138.

Shields were presented to Mencap Gold team for raising the most sponsorship, Wednesday Night Swimmers 1 for swimming the most lengths on the day and Bubble and Squeakers for the most original team.

Edward Kitchen received the Achievement and Endeavour Award due to his dedication over several years and consistently raising the most individual sponsorship.

Jamie and Charlie Neece received the Youth Achievement Award, the two brothers aged 9 and 12 had previously taken part in the Swimarathon, but this year urged their mother to contact the organisers to ensure a place was available, enrolling their father and his friend to make up a team.

Surestart volunteers who run support groups at The Cove, The Edge and Fairmead, Mayoral charities Rainbows and the Melton First Responders, and Melton Mencap were each awarded cheques for £1,100.

Special certificates were presented to St Mary’s Primary School, The Grove Primary School, Scalford Primary School, John Ferneley College and Old Dalby Primary School for their participation.

As part of the Melton Lions school link, vice president Lesley Godber awarded cheques for £250 to St Francis Primary School and Scalford Primary School for being joint winners of a poetry competition.