SWIMMERS are being urged to splash the cash at an annual fundraising event which has helped raise £20,000 for charity.

Retired school teacher Louise Newman, 56, is preparing to host her sixth

fun swim at Gourock Outdoor Pool next Sunday in aid of MS Society Scotland,

which supports people with multiple sclerosis.

The event started in 2011 shortly after Louise, who used to work at Greenock Academy then Clydeview, was diagnosed with the debilitating condition and was forced to quit her job.

Twelve months ago over £1,100 was raised for MS Society Scotland and life-

guard Mark Meahan, from Port Glasgow, added a further £900 in sponsorship

money after he completed two open water swims.

Charity champion Louise, who lives with her husband in Gourock, also

holds fundraising bake sales and collections but the Gourock pool fun day remains one of her favourites.

Louise, a keen swimmer, said: “It’s a fun afternoon out and it has become a

popular fixture in the pool calendar.

“I’m really excited about it and looking forward to it.

“The swim is a friendly, fun event and all for a good cause.

“What I also like about it is that it brings together a lot of people with a

similar condition too.”

Lots of friends, family, former pupils and sup-

porters are all preparing to take the plunge once again.

On the day there will also be tea, coffee, home baking and

a raffle.

Andrew Hemphill, a shift leader at Gourock Outdoor Pool, said: “This is my first year being involved with the swim but I know it’s a great event and a lot of people turn up every year to help raise a lot of money for a good cause.

“It’s become a permanent fixture of the pool each year.”

Louise paid tribute to staff and management from pool operators Inverclyde Leisure for their continued support.

She said: “IL have been great and give me the pool for nothing because it’s a fundraiser.

“They’ve been a big help and great supporters over the years.”

The fun swim takes place on Sunday at 5pm.

Entry costs £5 for adults, £2.50 for children and the price includes a cuppa.

Participants and visitors are asked to enter via the Lower Kempock Street car park gate.

People can register in advance by contacting Louise on Facebook or turn up on the day.