NEARLY £20,000 was raised at this year's annual Soroptimist Swimathon.

The 31st event of its kind took place in February earlier this year.

The challenge sees teams swim as many lengths as possible in order to raise charity funds.

The Soroptimist Swimathon recently presented cheques to three charities who will be benefitting from the efforts of the 78 teams who took part this year.

It was thought the total would be around £15,000, but after a final count it has been revealed £19,234.15 has been raised, meaning the three charities will get £6,411.38 each.

The money was presented to the charities, St Margaret's Hospice, Somerset Sight and Taunton Citizens Advice, on Friday, April 26.

Christine Briggs, event organiser, said: "It was a lovely evening attended by the deputy mayor of Taunton Deane, Councillor Francesca Smith, and her consort Mr Smith.

"The deputy mayor kindly presented all the trophies to the winning teams and the cheques to the charities we supported this year.

"She congratulated all the swimmers and the Soroptimists on an amazing achievement.

This brings the grand total raised over the last 31 years to £650,518.66 which has all been given to 78 local charities.