Swimmers set to be out in force with a series of events across the area

First, Matlock and District Swimming Club are holding a series of three open water swimming events at Derwent Gardens in Matlock Bath on Thursdays, June 13, July 11 and on August 1.

The evening events, starting at 7pm, are designed to be relatively informal with three races at each meeting taking place over 250m, 500m and 1500m.

Registration is on the day and the £7 entry fee (£5 for ASA or BTF members) entitles competitors to take part in as many or few races as they wish.

Full details can be found online at www.madswimming.org.uk

The events were first held last summer as some of the club’s members were lacking the opportunity to race in the open water without having to travel a long way, and they proved a great success with around 100 people turning out to each event.

The same venue will also be used for the inaugural Wildcat Aquathlon on Sunday, June 23 - a first for the area.

This event will take the form of a 1,500m swim followed by a 10k off-road run around Derwent Gardens and the private grounds of Willersley Castle.

There is a shorter 500m / 5k version for 11-16 year olds to take part in.

For those who may wish to swim and not run, or vice-versa, there is a relay pairs category.

Full details can be found at the organiser’s website - www.peaklifesport.co.uk

Finally, also organised by Peaklife Sport, will be the Aquaman Design High Peak Swim on Sunday, July 28 at Combs Reservoir near Chapel-en-le-Frith.

Again, with competitors frustrated by the lack of open water swimming opportunities locally, this has been organised as another first for the area.

Three races will be held over 500m, one mile and 5km with full rescue boat safety cover available and post-race refreshments at Combs Sailing Club.