The organisers of a popular sponsored swim have thanked Helensburgh locals for making their first event in five years a success.

The Helensburgh Christian Aid Committee were delighted by the turnout as more than 30 swimmers took part to raise funds for the charity on Saturday, September 30.

In the first sponsored swim since 2018, participants helped raise vital finds for Christian Aid to help the organisation carry out work in disadvantaged communities throughout the world.

A spokesperson said: “The Helensburgh Christian Aid Committee would like to express their thanks to everyone for making the Sponsored Swim event a success last Thursday night.

“Over 30 swimmers took part and many achieved a personal best.

“Thanks to Live Argyll staff for their help on the night as well as the support from Helensburgh Swim Club, local schools, volunteers, and swimmers.”

Sponsored swim money can be returned to The Bridge at Helensburgh Parish Church on Thursday, September 28 between 6pm and 8pm, or on Saturday, September 30 between 11am and 1pm.

Participants who are handing over their funds should note that there are no card facilities available.

Having raised thousands of pounds for Christian Aid in previous years, the swim couldn’t be held between 2019 and 2022 for a variety of reasons, such as the Covid-19 lockdown and the construction of the new leisure centre.

Christian Aid is a global charity that was established in 1945 and aims to eradicate poverty by providing humanitarian relief and offering long-term development support to disadvantaged communities around the world.