Our inaugural Sunrise Swim at London Fields Lido, Hackney, last night raised more than £2,500.

Held in partnership with leisure operator Better, the challenge was to swim the equivalent distance in metres of £3,850, which would pay for a day of hospice care.

As the sun rose over the lido’s 50m heated pool, the first of the swimmers plunged into the water.

The swimmers had a choice of taking on the 77 lengths (3,850m) individually or as a team.

More than £2,500 was raised for the hospice and the total is expected to increase with further sponsorship still to come in.

Mike Palfreman, Chief Executive at Haven House said: “It was great to see so many swimmers taking the plunge with our first ever Sunrise Swim.

“They have raised a fantastic amount for life-limited children and families in our area.

“I would also like to thank staff at the lido, Haven House staff and volunteers for ensuring the smooth running of the event and for braving the chilly temperatures outside of the pool.”