A CAMPAIGN to keep a Ceredigion water sports centre open is continuing to make a splash with fundraising stepping up this year.

Two years have gone by since Ceredigion County Council stopped all funding to the Llandysul Aqua Centre, but committee members, trustees, pool users and many Llandysul residents are not giving up the fight to keep its doors open.

This summer, the first ever Llandysul Kayathlon will be held and it is hoped that over £1,000 can be raised for two community businesses - Llandysul Paddlers and the Llandysul Aquacentre, and all proceeds will be split between them.

Aqua Centre chairman Gareth Bryant said: "Things are going really well at the pool, but we are still struggling since all of our funding was taken away from us in one hit. It was quite harsh. But we are determined to keep it going and by introducing different events we hope to raise money."

On Saturday, July 9, it is hoped that Llandysul will welcome hundreds of Kayathlon enthusiasts all wanting to take part.

"The race will start from Llandysul Paddlers where the first challenge will be to kayak 20 laps of the lake.

"Following this, you must cross the river under the bridge and run up to the Aquacentre and swim 10 lengths of the pool - help can be on hand for those who may feel that 10 lengths is beyond them.

"Then it's back down the hill, back under the bridge through the Teifi and following the course to another river crossing to the park.

"After running a lap of the park it's back across the river for the final lap of glory - a swim across the lake to the finish line where you will be greeted by rapturous applause, a medal to confirm your legend status and a cold beverage.

"There will also be a barbecue to help your weary body back to life!" explained Gareth who added that the Aqua Centre uses 1,000 litres a week of oil to keep it going.

Entry for the event is £25 per adult and £15 per child. This includes the use of kit (boats, buoyancy aids etc), swimming pool use, safety on the day, your medal and a cold one when you finish. If you want to gather some sponsorship money too, then that is welcome too.

Registration on the Saturday will be open from 10am and the race will start at 11am.

To register your interest, visit http://lpbookings.wix.com/kayathlon or contact: 01559 363209 / 07900 570440 for further information.