The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is encouraging swimmers and swimming pool venues to register for its November campaign Swim the Distance, as it raises funds to tackle a disease that kills 36,000 people per year.

Aimed at all ages and abilities of swimmer, the campaign hopes that people will choose a target distance, head down to their local pool throughout November and then log the lengths swum with the charity. Medals and certificates will be awarded to all finishers that raise £50 or more.

Leisure and sports centre operators can help to drive activity by registering with the Foundation and receiving a pack of information and promotional materials, and the charity hopes that operators will also take proactive steps such as setting up teams or making the charity effort part of existing swimming lessons. Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation’s marketing team can also help with generating publicity around Swim the Distance activity and achievements.

Emma Pearson, head of Public Fundraising at the Foundation, said: “Swimming is a great way to keep fit while also looking after your lungs. Most of all, it’s great fun, yet everyone who takes part will also be helping to fund our vital research and patient care projects.”