The fledgling Abergavenny Swimming Club was presented with Rotary’s Swimathon Shield for the most lengths in the recent day-long swimming competition.

The award was made by Abergavenny Rotary President Elect Lionel Elton, who told the youngsters that he was highly impressed with their efforts.

He explained that he had only learnt to swim at the age of 54 and ‘even then I could only swim on my back, which meant that I had to keep stopping and turning, to see where I was going!’.

The Swimathon has been going for many years, and has been a way for Rotary to raise funds for good causes and local clubs to raise money for themselves, especially the clubs who have helped at the Rotary Steam Rally.

This year over £2,500 was raised by the clubs and schools mentioned below.

The winners of the Junior Schools Challenge Shield were Llanfoist Primary School.

“We have had excellent support from the local schools such as Llanfoist Primary, Gilwern Primary, OL St. Michaels, Llantilio Pertholey and KHS and are indebted to the staff and children who give up their time and raise money for the Rotary Club,” said Rotarian Trevor Morgan.

“This year we had new clubs taking part such as St Davids Hospice and the Swimming Club alongside established participators like the Abergavenny Borough Band, Scout Group and Pétanque.

“This annual event is open to local clubs and societies to raise money for the Rotary to help us donate locally or raise money for themselves. If any club or society is interested in taking part all they need to do is contact Abergavenny Rotary Club.”