TWO disabled swimmers from York are hoping to make a splash during a fundraising event for Macmillan Cancer Relief.

John Batchlor, 64, of New Earswick, and Susan Sheldon, 34, of Acomb, are taking part in this year's Butlins Swimathon at the Barbican Centre, York.

John, who has had little use of his legs since birth and uses a wheelchair, will be relying on the strength of his arms as he sets out to swim 1,500 metres.

He said he liked to support Macmillan Cancer Relief because he lost both his parents to cancer more than 13 years ago.

He said: "I have just practised and practised and have built myself up from nothing to be able to swim 1,500 metres for the Swimathon."

Susan, who suffers from an inherited muscle disorder, is taking part in the fun swim category of the Swimathon.

She said: "I am taking part because my dad died of cancer many years ago and it is also a great challenge for me."

Last year Susan didn't feel strong enough to take part, but she's been practising and is now looking forward to the event.

Alex Emsley, Macmillan Cancer Relief's York appeal co-ordinator, said: "It's great to see such dedication and that people are getting so much pleasure out of raising money for Macmillan.

"There are still plenty of places for people to sign up for Swimathon in York - so why not set yourself a challenge or just enjoy a quiet swim while raising money for Macmillan."

The fundraising swim challenge will be taking place in 550 local pools across the UK, including the Barbican in York, between March 17 and 23, to raise more than £2 million for charity.

To register log on to www.swimathon.org, phone the Butlins Swimathon hotline on 0845 36 700 36 or pick up an entry form from your local participating pool.

Updated: 10:30 Saturday, March 08, 2003