Organisers of a Suffolk pool’s annual Swimathon joined people from all over the country to celebrate the charity event’s 30th anniversary.

Maria Smith and Len Phoenix from Stradbroke Swim & Fitness Centre were invited to the House of Lords for the celebration.

Their involvement marked the Stradbroke’s participation over 20 years with the centre always rated in the top five pools out of more than 600 taking part each year.

Nationally, Swimathon has raised millions of pounds for Macmillan and other cancer-related charities.

Guests at Parliament included the event’s trustees, management, sponsors, representatives of the best pools and “Mr Swimathon”, former champion swimmer Duncan Goodhew.

Mr Phoenix said: “We both felt very honoured to represent the Swimathon Swimmers who have all taken part over the years. We all have shed loads of fun doing it.”