More than 150 swimmers took to the waters to help raise money for the Royal British Legion on Remembrance Sunday.

Members of Maldon Sharks Swimming Club, along with other users of the South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre, raised a total of £1,126 for the charity by taking part in a day of activities to mark the centenary of the First World War Armistice.

Swimmers, coaches and parents from the Sharks completed what they called the We Will Remember Them 100 x 100m, a continuous relay which saw them finish 10km in a time of two hours, 55 minutes and 50 seconds.

Led by club captain Abbie Mortimer-Ford, the Sharks raised a total of £400 by collecting sponsors from friends and family before the challenge.

This cash was handed over to staff at the leisure centre to add to the money which had been collected throughout the fundraising day.

Sue Humphries, a swimming teacher at the centre, came up with the idea of hosting the activity day to support to Royal British Legion.

She said: "We are absolutely delighted with the number of people who have taken the time to support this worthy cause.

"It has been a fantastic community event, thank you to all those who came to swim, who offered their support, or who just came down to watch."

The day included entertainment from singers Josh Brough, Beau Langdale, Rita B, along with face painting and a bouncy castle for youngsters.

Visitors also enjoyed a First World War style tea party using vintage china and a selection of sweet treats.

Tara Fisher-Harris, pool manager at South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre, said: "We wanted to be able to commemorate the centenary of the Armistice of the First World War in a way which was inclusive of the community, fun, and also educational.

"Alongside the swimming, we also displayed military uniforms, helmets, and back packs from the First and Second World Wars as well as items from the modern army kit."

Kevin Golding, South Woodham Ferrers' deputy mayor was invited as a guest of honour and said the day was "thoroughly enjoyable".