DISABLED children will be making a splash at a swimming gala this weekend.For the sixth year Lions Clubs from Ipswich, Felixstowe, Stowmarket and Woodbridge will be taking over Crown Pools in Ipswich this Saturday for their annual disabled swimming gala.

DISABLED children will be making a splash at a swimming gala this weekend.

For the sixth year Lions Clubs from Ipswich, Felixstowe, Stowmarket and Woodbridge will be taking over Crown Pools in Ipswich this Saturday for their annual disabled swimming gala.

Everyone is a winner at the gala, which is being run in conjunction with the Evening Star, and everyone gets a medal for taking part.

Bill Murton from Ipswich Lion's Club said all the youngsters love taking part and its all about fun.

The Galas are always full of atmosphere with shouts and cheers of encouragement all the way through.

Mr Murton said: "We do it to give people a chance to experience what it is like to take part, who don't normally get asked to take part in competitive things, although this is not really about competition.

"It gives them the thrill of getting a medal."

The swim is intended for children with learning difficulties or physical handicap and everyone is catered for whether they are in a wheelchair or need help in the pool.

Even if some do not want to swim, the Lion's Club wanted to be sure that everyone could get involved and is including the walking race in the shallow end again, which was introduced last year.

All abilities are also taken into account in the gala with swims going the width of the pool for different age groups (including mums and dads) and also lengths.

Of course safety is top priority and a member of Ipswich Life Savers Club swims backwards a length away from each entrant.

Anyone with a disability can go along and take part on the night, but are advised to call Mr Murton beforehand on o1473 747132.

The gala is due to take place between 7pm and 9pm.