Teams of swimmers from across Bristol took part in a swimming marathon at Clifton High School pool to raise money for local charities.

Almost 150 people from 25 teams took the plunge for the event, organised by the Rotary Club of Clifton.

Youngsters from schools such as Clifton High School, QEH, Bristol Grammar School and Weston Park School shared the pool with members of Manor Farm Boys Club and other clubs from the city. Each team, of between four and six swimmers, swam for 55 minutes over a seven hour period.

The 20-strong Rotary Club of Clifton team – ranging from youngsters to veterans in their 70s – between them swam 2,279 lengths, or 35 miles.

The swim raised £14,000 for charities, including Children's Hospice South West, the Lord Mayor's Children's Appeal and PROPS, a charity for people with learning difficulties, as well as support for the building of a school in Nepal.

Tim Mitchell, president of the Rotary Club of Clifton, said the event had been a great success.

The marathon was started by Lord Mayor Chris Davies, who watched with his wife, Susan.