SWIMMERS from Braintree made a splash as part of a worldwide Aquathon charity event.

Aqua coach Sarah Windibank joined instructors Colin Street, Fiona Riley and Becki Windes.

The professionals took part in the seventh worldwide Aquathon charity event in memory of friend Karen Stokoe and to raise vital funds for the Marie Curie cancer charity.

Karen Stokoe lost her battle against a brain tumour in 2017.

Before her death, Karen had been a huge fan of Sarah’s classes and would attend as many as she possibly could.

On Saturday, Sarah arranged for specially-trained aqua presenters to take part in a three-hour long aquathon in Braintree, attended by more than 30 people.

Sarah said: “Becki kicked things off with Aqua Hiit, followed by Aqua Disco with Colin, then Aqua Zumba with Fiona.”

Sarah had flown in from teaching in Spain especially to lead the Aqua Combat session.

She said: “The three hours ended with a raffle. The event raised £1,222, which has been donated to Marie Curie.

“Marie Curie nurses take care of people with terminal illness, providing 24-hour help and assistance to families and all affected.”

Sarah, 51, from Witham, was inspired to take part by Karen.

Sarah has represented England at both the European and International Aquatic Fitness conferences in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

The worldwide aquathon started seven years ago when Rose Hertsenburge, from South Africa, decided to unite aqua instructors from around the world.

The aim was to introduce aqua sport to new participants while helping to raise money for charities.

One of the participants from Silver End said: “I loved taking part in the aquathon, this was my fourth time attending and Sarah always chooses a great cause.

“What is there not to like about staying fit and raising money for charity?

“The atmosphere was amazing, with all ages having fun side by side.”

Karen Stokoe died aged 39 in May 2017.

Brain tumours are the biggest cause of death from cancer of people under the age of 40.

Her family and friends are determined to keep her memory alive by raising money and doing the things she enjoyed, like her aqua classes.