Splashing Success as SwiMarathon Makes Waves for Harborough Groups

Community groups across Market Harborough are celebrating after sharing £10,000 raised at this year’s SwiMarathon.

The event, organised by the Rotary Club of Market Harborough, took place at Harborough Leisure Centre in March and saw more than 130 swimmers in 30 teams cover over 80 kilometres.

Grants were handed out at a presentation ceremony this week, with 19 local organisations benefitting from the fundraising.

Carole Baldham from the Rotary Club says the event continues to bring the community together.

Among those receiving funding is the 1st Market Harborough Scout Group, which says the money will help improve its Coventry Road base.

Group Scout Leader Gary Duffin says the support will make a real difference.

 

Meadowdale Primary School is also benefiting, with its new emotional literacy support room set to be furnished thanks to the grant. Headteacher Liz Martin says it will have a big impact:

Holiday at Home, which supports elderly residents in Market Harborough unable to get away during the summer, is also receiving funding.

Maureen Douglas says the scheme is vital for reducing isolation:

Trophies were also presented by Rotary Club President Les Dodd.

VASL won Best Team Name with “VASLines”, while star junior swimmers were George Sandford and Ellie Green. Helen Nyul was named Star Adult Swimmer, Harborough Triathlon Club swam the most lengths, and VASL also raised the most money.

The annual SwiMarathon, hosted by HFM has raised over £100,000 for good causes over the years.

This year grants were awarded to 19 organisations, including Voluntary Action South Leicestershire, Ian’s Chain, St Nicholas Church, HYACT – The Cube, Breathe Easy, Great Bowden Preschool, Harborough Hygiene Bank, The Bower House, The Village Community Fridge, Market Harborough Sea Cadets, Harborough District Children and Young People’s Charity, Home-Start South Leicestershire, Northants Lone Guides and Rangers, Girlguiding Harborough District, Elderberries and HFM Radio.

Businesses have also been thanked for supporting the event.