ENERGETIC swimmers who raised thousands of pounds for charity are recovering after their exertions at the annual Taunton Soroptimists Swimathon over the weekend.

So far £14,323.29 has been pledged by the 450 participants in 72 teams who took the dip at the two-day event at Taunton Preparatory School - although organisers expect the final total to rise significantly once all the sponsorship has been collected.

Teams from schools, businesses, families and friends took part to help raise cash for Taunton Foodbank, MIND Taunton and West Somerset and St Margaret's Hospice.

The swimming got underway on Saturday morning when the event was opened by Taunton Dean Mayor Cllr Hazel Prior-Sankey and ocean swimmer Beth French, who swam in teams on both days.

A total of 4,027 were completed, covering 125 miles. The Sea Squad Reviews team totted up 107 laps, more than any other group.

Swimathon co-ordinator Christine Briggs said: "A huge thank you to everyone, whether they took part, sponsored, or came to support us, including our sponsors especially Taunton School, who looked after us so well.

"This really was a 'feel good' event with everyone having a fun time raising money for local good causes.

"As a Soroptimist club we feel very proud to have been organising this event for 30 years now and are so pleased to have been able to help, as a result, so many local charities and good causes."