Pupils from Channing School raised waves of cash for good causes by taking part in a sponsored Swimathon.

Ham & High: The Swimathon at the Mallinson Sports CentreThe Swimathon at the Mallinson Sports Centre (Image: Archant)

More than 50 swimmers, aged from four to 18, covered hundreds of lengths between them to collect £5,000 for their chosen charities.

Several teachers also took the plunge, including junior school headmistress Louise Lawrance, who was challenged to wear a Victorian bathing suit for her swim. She said: “The event went swimmingly. I am so proud of our girls and colleagues, who went to great lengths for their chosen charity.”

The money will be split between Level Water, helping disabled children learn to swim, mental health charity SANE and Channing’s own Capital Challenge – a bid to raise £3million for new facilities at the school.