KEEN swimmers have been invited to participate in a charity open water swimming challenge.

The event will be hosted by Olympic medallist Cassie Patten at Bowmoor Lake (GL7 3DT), near Lechlade, on Saturday, August 5.

Cassie represented Great Britain at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the 800m freestyle where she reached the final and in the 10km open water swimming event where she won a bronze medal.

This is the fifth open water swim organised by Lechlade and District Lions Club and all proceeds will go to The Prospect Hospice in Swindon.

Last year's event attracted over 100 swimmers from as far away as Wales and Durham.  

On the day, registration will be at 8am, the 3k race will commence at 9am and 1k, 2k, 3k challenge events will start at 10.30am and the Prospect Hospice Big Swim 1km event will begin at 10.45am.

All swimmers can join Cassie’s tips and techniques workshops throughout the day at no extra cost. 

Interested swimmers can reserve a place at tinyurl.com/24yxywuh

Family and friends are welcome to come and watch and all parking will be free.

Refreshments will also be available. 

Cassie Patten said: “I love this annual event as it gives everyone a chance to get in the water and  test out their ability at all levels - from absolute beginners to long distance racers."

Lechlade and District Lions Club president Ian Thomas said: "Thanks to all participants for their support, for all the volunteers who make this a special day, to Bowmoor Sailing Club Lake for donating lake access, and to Arval for their sponsorship.”