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The Committee of the Skipton Swimarathon has announced two beneficiaries for this year's funding, Autism Guernsey and the Channel Islands Air Search will both receive donations from the event.
The Skipton Swimarathon, which will take place between the 8th and 12th October this year, is one of the Island's major fundraising events and is organised jointly by the Lions Club of Guernsey and Guernsey Round Table, and sponsored by Skipton International.
Autism Guernsey [in partnership with NAS Guernsey] currently provides the only autism specific Outreach Service in the Bailiwick, directly supporting individuals and families affected by autism. Demand for this much needed service far exceeds the current service capabilities meaning additional support is required. The charity will use the money donated by the Skipton Swimarathon, to employ support-workers who will be able to give 1-to-1 practical help to children and adults through this much needed service.
The Channel Islands Air Search is a search and rescue organisation which acts as the Lifeboats' eyes in the sky and is funded entirely by charitable donations. Last year the search aircraft, The Lions' Pride, was irreparably damaged in a crash, with around £3,000,000 needed to fund a replacement.
Steve Hogg, Chairman of the Skipton Swimarathon Committee said 'Whilst there will no doubt be many fundraising efforts made to help finance The Lion's Pride replacement, we felt we should contribute to this vital service which any one of us could find ourselves needing. Autism Guernsey is a relatively new charity providing a much needed service for individuals and families affected by autism and we are pleased to be able to help fund its Outreach Service.'
Last year 1,540 swimmers took part in the Swimarathon, raising £45,000 for charitable causes on the Island, the main beneficiary being the Friends of Saumarez Park Playground. The funds are helping with the first phase of a new Children's Playground at the Park.
Skipton International has committed to be sponsors for a fifth year, Managing Director, Jim Coupe said the charities are integral to our community: 'The CI Air Search could save any one of our lives' and Autism Guernsey's service is a vital support network. I urge everyone to think about putting together a team, it's fun, there's no need to be an Olympic swimmer - all abilities take part, and most importantly you will be helping your community and really making a difference.'
You can find out more and register your team at: www.swimarathon.org
