Grantham's biggest community fundraising event has made a triumphant splash for 2025, with the town's annual RotarySwimarathon smashing its all-time record to raise a phenomenal £55,000.
A Community Effort Makes Waves
Now in its 37th year, the three-day event took place from February 6 to 8 at the Grantham Meres Leisure Centre. It saw an incredible 1,400 participants of all ages form teams from local schools, businesses, clubs, and family groups to perform relay swims. They were supported by an army of dedicated volunteers, solidifying the Swimarathon's status as the area's premier fundraising activity.
Historic Sponsor Celebrates Local Roots
The 2025 event received a significant boost from main sponsor Henry Bell & Co. The Grantham-based company, which is marking 200 years in the town, started the year by backing the initiative. Thomas Lee, Managing Director of Henry Bell, emphasised the company's commitment to its home. "We are a company with an international presence, but we have also been part of Grantham for 200 years," he said. "Our place in the community is incredibly important to us and we are proud to give back."
Record Funds for Vital Local Causes
The record-breaking 2025 total of £55,000 has been distributed to 40 local organisations, demonstrating the wide-reaching impact of the event. Grants ranged from £150 for a new tent for a local Brownie group to £4,000 for the Air Ambulance service. This outstanding effort contributed to the event's staggering lifetime fundraising total, which now stands at £1,078,000 since 1990.
The Swimarathon's success was recently recognised at the Grantham Journal Business Awards, where it won the Best Social Enterprise Award for 2025. This accolade highlights the immense social value the event generates for the Grantham area and beyond.
