SWIMMING heroes are encouraging people in Runcorn and Widnes to sign up to Swimathon to raise vital charity funds.

Team GB stars, Mark Foster and Duncan Goodhew, are supporting this year's fundraising swim in aid of Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie.

Taking place from Friday, March 29 until Sunday, March 31, swimmers of all ages and abilities can enter Swimathon in pools across the region, including Kingsway Leisure Centre, Runcorn Swimming Pool and Brookvale Leisure Centre.

Mark Foster, the former World, European and Commonwealth champion who set eight world records during his career, is supporting the campaign alongside Olympic gold medalist Duncan Goodhew, president of Swimathon.

Mark said: "I’m very proud to be supporting Swimathon 2019 and I hope everyone looking to set themselves a challenge signs up.

"Whether you’re just learning or are an experienced swimmer already, there’s a challenge for you.

"Swimming is fantastic for your health and wellbeing as it helps to keep fit.

"As you train, you build stamina and speed, and as it’s a low impact sport, the chances of injury are low while also good for recovery if you’re coming back from injury."

Duncan added said: "It has been a real joy to see Swimathon develop and mature into the great event it is today.

"Swimathon gives everyone a chance to get active with friends and family, whilst doing some good at the same time.

"I am so proud that Swimathon gives so many people the chance to enjoy the water, get swimming and set themselves a challenge."

For more information about Swimathon and to sign up, visit the website here.