A FOURTH generation of a family is being groomed to take part in an annual charity challenge.

Wallace Elliott, 72, has competed in every one of the BT Swimathons at the pool in Darlington's Dolphin Centre.

He will again be joined in this year's event by daughter Susan Elliott-Lyall, 48, and granddaughter Emily Elliott, 27.

Another granddaughter, 15-year-old Lucy Elliott-Lyall, missed the first Swimathon because she was too young, but has taken part in every one since the age of four. Each member of the family will swim 50 lengths.

Now another family member, Jamie Hall, four, is learning to swim, and her great-grandfather hopes she will be able to join in next year.

Mr Elliott said: "She's not as confident in the water as Lucy was at her age, but we're teaching her and she may be able to take part next year."

The family has raised thousands of pounds for charity over the years. This year's event, which takes place in Darlington on March 25, is raising money for Macmillan Cancer Relief, the Prostate Cancer Charity and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Mr Elliott said: "We all enjoy it, it exercises every part of your body and it's for a good cause at the same time."

For details of how to take part in this year's Swimathon, call freefone 0800 7317316, log on to the website at www.btswimathon.com or pick up an entry form from participating pools.

* ADULTS with learning disabilities from around County Durham will make a splash in a water gala tomorrow.

Beck House Day Centre in Darlington is holding the event at the Dolphin Centre.

The non-swimmers event has been organised by County Durham Care's sports and leisure committee, and will include activities such as a walking race, pull and tug, a ball walk and a relay race.

David Jameson from County Durham Care, who helped organise the event, said: "This is a non competitive event. It is aimed at our more special needs clients and there is an activity to match everyone's abilities.