The mayor of Merton has swum over 100 lengths in a bid to raise money for charity and encourage older people to continue exercising.

The mayor, Councillor David Chung, swum his goal of 100 lengths in four days between April 12 and April 19 at the Canon’s Leisure Centre in Madeira Road, Mitcham.

And, according to the mayor’s office, he is not ready to stop yet, after swimming another ten lengths on Monday, April 25.

A spokeswoman from the mayor’s office said: “He’s going to keep swimming because he thinks it is so important to encourage people to keep fit.

“He has a prosthetic limb and is wheelchair bound, which shows that this is really good exercise that anybody can take up.

“Swimming is a great activity, and one of the best ways to keep active when you reach a certain age.”

The mayor has so far raised £420 for his chosen charities, the Merton Centre for Independent Living and Friends in St Helier.

To sponsor his swim, contact the mayor’s office on 020 8545 3517 or mayor@merton.gov.uk.