Swimminers throughout Oxfordshire are preparing to take the plunge to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

The main charity to benefit from the Sharron Davies 2001 Mile Swim Challenge will be the Imperial Cancer Research Fund.

Several county pools have already pledged to take part in the event, which is part of the nationwide Swim for Life Campaign.

Sharron said she was "delighted" at the support.

"We depend on pools throughout the country to help promote the challenge to as many swimmers as possible in order to raise the greatest amount for charity," she said.

To take part swimmers have to swim a sponsored mile at their local pool - either as an individual or as part of a team. the mile can be completed in stages.

For details call the Actionline on 01382 451146.