This is the first time members of the hospital's Charlecote and Nicholas wards have entered the event, which takes place at Warwick School on September 14.

Anne-Marie Greger is manager of Charlecote ward, which cares for haematology and general medical patients.

She said: "We saw it advertised in the Courier and thought it looked like a fun thing to do.

"It's going to be a laugh and is for a good cause. We're not Olympic-standard swimmers, but we're going to have a practice and do our best."

It will be the fifth year running staff from the hospital's eye unit have joined in with the sponsored swim.

Non-swimming team captain Diane Davies said: "It's always a fun occasion. We started doing it when the eye unit was the chosen charity, then just carried on. It's a way of giving something back."

Warks and Northants Air Ambulance, Relate's Time For You counselling services and the Physically Handicapped and Able Bodied club PHAB will benefit this year.

The event is open to everyone, but teams should consist of six swimmers and a non-swimming team captain.

People who would like to swim but are not part of a team can contact the booking officer who may be able to place them with one.

Organiser Patricia Dent said: "We are delighted that the eye unit is supporting us again and that we have two new teams taking part.

"The morning swimming slots are now full, but we still have spaces in the afternoon and early evening."

Team members will swim in relay for 55 minutes and receive sponsorship for the number of lengths swum.

Although not a competition, prizes are awarded to teams that raise the most money and swim the greatest number of lengths.

Last year the swimathon raised £11,000 for charity.

To take part call 07880 987300 or email gab27658@yahoo.co.uk