PEOPLE are being encouraged to sign up and join in with the World’s Biggest Swim.

The event, which was established in 1986, has raised more than £40m for charitable causes with Sport Relief as the official charity partner for 2016.

Ryedale Swim and Fitness Centre in Pickering is offering a range of distances and challenges to suit swimmers of all fitness levels.

Individuals can choose from 1.5k, 2.5k or 5k distances. There are also team challenge distances of 1.5k and 5k. Teams can split the distance however they choose to cater for the strongest and weakest swimmers in the squad.

Swimmers looking for a helping hand with their swimming technique or with putting together a swimming training plan can visit the centre where Everyone Active fitness motivators are on-hand to provide training advice leading up to the event on March 18-20.

“We are delighted to support the Swimathon again this year,” said Everyone Active Contract Manager, Kevan Murray.

“People of all ages and abilities can take part and it’s a great opportunity to raise money for charity while enjoying a fantastic workout.

"Sport Relief is a truly worthwhile cause so we’re encouraging as many people as possible to set up a team, take the plunge and join in the fun.”

For more information, visit everyoneactive.com or swimathon.org