A 24-hour charity swim challenge is set to make a real splash in Southport, as swimmers come together to support a local teenager who is now in remission from blood cancer.
The endurance challenge will take place at Marshside Health Club from Saturday 17th January to Sunday 18th January 2026, with participants swimming around the clock to raise vital funds for Alder Hey Children’s Charity.
The challenge has been inspired by Harrison Dale, a 15-year-old pupil at Stanley High School, whose courage and determination have brought the local community together.
In March 2025, Harrison was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. A passionate swimmer, he learned to swim with Swims’cool, trains regularly at Marshside Health Club and competes for Southport Swimming Club. Throughout his treatment, swimming remained a source of strength and motivation.
Now in remission, Harrison’s journey has inspired friends, fellow swimmers and supporters to take on the 24-hour challenge in his honour, celebrating resilience while raising funds to support children and families cared for by Alder Hey.
Members of the public are encouraged to show their support by cheering on participants or donating to the cause, helping to turn every length of the pool into hope for others facing similar battles.
You can sponsor the event here.
Holly Hibbott from Swinscool said:
“Thanks to the remarkable care of the team at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Harrison is now in remission.
“Now, our community is coming together — to say thank you, to give back, and to support every child who is fighting cancer at Alder Hey.
“We are hosting a 24-Hour Sponsored Swim, from 1pm on Saturday 17th January to 1pm Sunday 18th January 2026, at Marshside Health Club Pool.
“Swimmers from, Southport Swimming Club, Swims’cool, Marshside Health Club, Stanley High School will take turns swimming around the clock, keeping the pool active for a full 24 hours — no breaks!
“Every donation from this fundraiser will go directly to purchasing projector equipment for the Oncology Ward — bringing comfort, distraction and joy to children during long treatment days and hospital stays.
“This is about community, hope, and making a difference together.
“We are also looking for any raffle prizes or generous donations from local businesses or individuals, and any support in spreading the word would mean so much to us.”
If you can support the appeal in any way, please email Holly Hibbott at Swinscool at: lessons@swimscoolmhc.co.uk or message her via Facebook.
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