An Iwade woman is to take the plunge in one of the world’s biggest fundraising swims.

Amanda Hurrell will show off her best breaststroke at Sittingbourne’s Swallows Leisure Centre to raise cash for Marie Curie Cancer.

The charity, which provides support to people suffering from a terminal illness, has been chosen as the partner for this year’s Swimathon.

The annual event, which is happening today, has been held for the past 27 years with a number of national charities benefiting, including the NSPCC, Macmillan Cancer Support and the British Heart Foundation.

This year, it is being run over three days with thousands of swimmers expected to take on the challenge. Those competing can either swim as part of a team or individually, doing either 1.5k, 2.5k or 5k solo or 1.5k or 5k as a group.

Mrs Hurrell, who is a sale co-ordinator at Cambridge Research Systems in Rochester, said: “I hope to raise £500 with the help of friends, family, colleagues and contacts through my work.

“I’ve raised £425 so far – £60 in chilli jam sales and I plan to do a cake sale at work. I’m a little scared about taking part in Swimathon 2015 now that we are less than two weeks away.

“It’s a fantastic way to challenge yourself, to raise money for a great cause and get involved with the community.”

To donate to Marie Curie Cancer Care, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/.