The first entries to Swimathon 2010 dived into the pool this week - and proved that the world’s biggest fundraising swim really is for everyone.

Zöe Salmon and Duncan Goodhew may live hundreds of miles apart, lead very different lives and, dare we say it, vary slightly in age – but they have one thing in common: they both love swimming.

Swimathon 2010 hits hundreds of pools across the UK between 16-18 April 2010. Ask at your nearest swimming pool in Pembrokeshire to see whether they are participating. More than 15,000 swimmers will raise £1.5m for Marie Curie Cancer Care and The Swimathon Foundation.

The majority of the funds will help Marie Curie Nurses provide free nursing care to cancer patients and those with other terminal illnesses in their own homes.

And no wonder the dynamic duo were so quick off the diving blocks - throughout January, for the first time, Swimathon is offering 50% off entry fees.

Zöe has always demonstrated sporting prowess and versatility: throughout her four years as a Blue Peter presenter, by reaching the quarter finals of ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2009, by running the London Marathon in 2006 – and placing 20th in FHM’s 2009 Top 100 Sexiest Women poll.

Duncan Goodhew is one of Britain’s most instantly recognisable sportsmen. His many achievements in the pool culminated in a last-gasp Gold in the 100m breaststroke at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Duncan was awarded an MBE for services to sport in 1981 and is now an author, motivational speaker and president of Swimathon.

Zöe said: “I’ve always found swimming a really good way to keep in shape. Everyone needs a challenge now and again, especially to keep motivated during the cold winter months. And what better additional spur than to help out Marie Curie Cancer Care – a charity that does such crucial work right around the UK? I can’t wait to take part.”

“Swimathon is incredibly exciting. It enables normal people to do extraordinary things. Everyone’s challenge is very much their own – but not only do their efforts benefit themselves, they benefit their country and the charities,” said Duncan.

Now in its 24th year, over half a million swimmers have taken part in Swimathon – swimming the equivalent of over 24 times round the world and raising over £30 million for charity.

To find out more or to sign up for a Swimathon session at the nearest participating pool between, either go online to www.swimathon.org