ONE hundred swimmers shook off pool closure fears to take the fund-raising plunge at Atherton Baths.

They clocked up 2,002 lengths in 70 minutes, knocking 30 minutes off their proposed target, and totted up hundreds of pounds to help celebrate the centenary they hope will go ahead next year.

Members are afraid the Mayfield Street pool, under constant review by the Metro, could be lost before the big October party date because of high running costs.

But they are keeping their fingers crossed the building will escape the axe and have vowed to fight any closure,

Club secretary Lev Baddley said: "We have heard nothing yet, so we are hoping that no news is good news.

"The event was great with novices to veterans taking to the water. The swimming was easy, it's collecting the cash that will be a bit harder."

The next money raiser is on August 25 at Leigh Asda, where members have volunteered to be bag packers for the day - in return for donations from shoppers.

Then it is the club championships in November and, for the first time, Mr Baddley is seeking backing for each event.

He is appealing to local businesses to contribute £10 sponsorship for each one of the 56 events.

Anyone willing to help can contact Mr Baddley on 874734. TAKING THE PLUNGE: Swimmers relax before the serious fund-raising begins at the Mayfield Street pool (J1996-31)