Lyme Splash is set to go ahead with both its events – a Water Polo Sea Championship and the Lyme Regis to Charmouth Challenge Sea Swim – in 2023 after years of cancellations due to the coronavirus pandemic and poor weather.

The water polo championship will be held off the historic Cobb harbour in Lyme Regis over the weekend of August 5 and 6, with Bridport Barracudas set to take part, and the swimming challenge will be held on Sunday, September 3.

Karen Durham-Diggins, chair of Lyme Splash, is keeping fingers cross for good weather after several years of cancellations.

She said: "It was so upsetting last year to have to cancel due to the weather, but other than Covid that's the first time we've had to – so we are hoping this year will be glorious!"

The Lyme Splash Sea Water Polo Championship will be the fourth to be held in Lyme Regis and and the largest sea water polo championship in the UK, with 18 teams from around the UK set to compete.

"Most teams don't get to play in the sea," said Karen. "Lyme Regis had a fine heritage of both sea and pool water polo and we are gradually bringing that back.

"As we now have a fledgling water polo team forming, who train with Bridport Barracudas, we are hoping to also have a junior exhibition match too."

The fifth Lyme Splash Lyme Regis to Charmouth Challenge on Sunday, September 3 will see up to 200 swimmers from all over the UK take part, two thirds within 50 miles of Lyme Regis.

Bookings are now open for entry to the swim with more information available at www.lyme-splash.com/lyme-regis-to-charmouth-challenge-sea-swim

Karen commented: "Some are focused on their speed but for many it is taking it at their own pace and making it a personal challenge.

"Swimmers free from Covid and its after-effects, back in the water and training to build up stamina and fitness to manage the 3.15k will be ready for the challenge!"

She added: "Our volunteers and supporters, both those in the water for safety and on shore, as well as businesses that help with equipment, sustaining the Lyme Splash crew and the raffle, are truly wonderful and for which we are so appreciative.

"This year we will also have the support of our local Powder Monkeys Explorer Sea Scouts. Some will be helping, some taking part, and some will be doing both!

"It's great to be able to include, give opportunities and be supported by such a growing group of great young people interested in our ocean."

Charities supported by Lyme Splash this year will include Ghost Fishing UK, which recovers fishing nets from wrecks and the seabed, the Powder Monkeys, B Sharp and Plastic Free Lyme Regis.

Anyone can buy raffle tickets online or on the day www.lyme-splash.com/swim-raffle and more information about the events can be found on www.lyme-splash.com