HAVING raised £770,000 in 37-years Poole Lions are making waves to break £800,000 with next year's swimarathon.

Poole Lions 2016 Charity Swimathon takes place at the Dolphin Pool over the weekend of February 6 and 7.

And they are urging schools, clubs, residents, organisations and businesses to sign up and raise funds for charity through sponsorship.

"The Lions of Poole are roaring in excitement for their 38th fun-swim relay and swimarathon," said Graham Starr, welfare chairman. "All funds raised by teams entering are donated to local Poole charities."

The target is to raise £30,000 to help local people in need with funds split between five charities.

Those benefitting will be children's hospice Julia's House, Montacute School for severe and multiple learning difficulties, Club 21 supporting friends of people with learning difficulties, Purple Teardrop refuge for trafficked women and Forest Holme hospice.

"The Lions are encouraging Poole residents, colleges, schools, clubs, businesses and organisations to take part in the event held at the Dolphin Pool," said Graham.

"Join us on February 6 or 7 2016 for fun times, record breaking and exciting relay swims."

The Lions are urging teams of six swimmers and a non-swimming captain to take the plunge, completing as many lengths as possible in 55 minutes.

All ages from young children to grandparents can take part and help raise funds for charity in the fun relay swim.

Among the swimming stars last year were Bournemouth Collegiate School pupils who filled eight lanes, Broadstone Scouts and Montacute School.

Donations can be made directly to the Poole Lions Swimathon or donations can be made by texting SWIM38 followed by £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 to 70070.

An application form for the swim is available at facebook.com/poolelionsswimarathon or from swimarathon chairman Ian Braid at poolelionsswimathon@gmail.com or 01202 695352.