FUNDRAISERS threw themselves in at the deep end, all to raise cash for a WGC charity.

AS a charity fundraiser, it all went swimmingly!

In the dead of night, 150 people took the plunge in an assortment of costumes, all to raise vital funds for Isabel Hospice.

The WGC-based charity was hosting its annual sponsored swim – although the first to be held at midnight – on Saturday.

The number of venues doubled this year too, with swimmers able to choose to crash out the lengths at Hatfield Swim Centre or the pool at Haileybury College.

And with a nautical theme, an array of mermaids, pirates and even piranhas helped swim 164 miles, way above the 100-mile target.

And, at Hatfield, there was even a hotly-contested raft race, won by a team of student paramedics from the University of Hertfordshire, and try-dive sessions hosted by the Trident Sub Aqua Club.

Hospice fundrais-er Katie Robertson said: “We had hot chocolate and cakes on sale and spectators in their PJs cheering the swimmers on – it was like a fundraising midnight feast!

“We hope to have raised thousands of pounds which would not have been possible without so many people taking part and raising sponsorship.”

Richard Bienfait, managing director of event sponsors Veolia Water Central, said he was “thrilled” with its success.

He said: “Many of our staff and customers have been touched by the work of the hospice and pleased to help boost funds for the charity.”