A group of sponsored swimmers have been lapping the pool at Sheringham leisure centre Splash in aid of health and wellbeing charity Excel 2000.

North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb was among poolside supporters cheering on the group, which included Excel instructors and class members.

They were joined by district councillor Graham Jones and Andreas Yiasimi of the Constantia Restaurant, Eest Runton, who did a sponsored exercise bike ride.

They were raising cash to help with the cost of setting up a network of well-being clubs, the first of which will be launched in October at Excel 2000's new headquarters at Splash.

The charity, which was founded by former nurse Penny Bevan Jones, already offers structured movement to music sessions in East Anglia, the Home Counties and Yorkshire, as well as running workshops for carers and individually tailored short courses aimed at helping people with physical and mental health challenges.

Mrs Bevan Jones now hopes to branch out and offer more services to clients, from youngsters with special needs, to elderly people recovering from illness.

As well as running weekly car boot sales selling donated goods, she is planning to organise a sponsored walk and hopes to team up with other locally-based charities to raise funds.

"I believe we need to work together to beat the cutbacks, whilst providing opportunities for people in the community to enjoy good health, vitality and friendship," she said.

For more information about Excel 2000, visit www.excel2000.org.uk or phone 01263 825670.