RESIDENTS across the town are being encouraged to head to their local swimming baths to take part in a charity challenge by a former Olympian.

Sharron Davies is asking supporters to raise money for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation by completing a mile-long sponsored swim.

Money raised will help the charity fund vital lung cancer research and support people living with lung cancer.

The retired swimmer, who was born in Plymouth, won two gold medals at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Canada.

Two years later she won a silver medal in the 400-metre individual medley at Moscow's 1980 Olympic Games.

"As a swimmer, my lungs are obviously vital to my performance in the pool, which is just one of the reasons why I am supporting this campaign," said Ms Davies.

"I was shocked to discover that lung cancer kills more women than any other cancer yet, despite this, there is very little research into this dreadful disease."

The 52-year-old added: "The more people who get swimming, the more money we can raise for more research to find a cure."

The challenge can be completed in one go or in multiple swims over the course of a month.

The charity is the UK's only lung cancer charity and is committed to medical research, reducing smoking and patient support.

For further information of how to get involved visit www.roycastle.org/swim.