One of East Anglia’s most popular sporting events has opened for entries.

More than 2,000 swimmers of all abilities are expected to sign up to this year’s Great East Swim which takes place at Alton Water Reservoir in Holbrook on June 21.

The challenge, which is sponsored by Suffolk County Council as part of its ‘Most Active County’ initiative, has St Elizabeth Hospice and Headway as its nominated charities, with each organisation receiving 10 complimentary entries.

Alan Murray, cabinet member for health and adult care, said: “It’s vital that we continue to create a long lasting legacy from the London 2012 Games in our bid to become the most active county in England.

“As part of this bid, the Great East Swim is a fantastic opportunity for those from a wide range of ages and backgrounds to get active and have fun. I would encourage anyone inspired to take on a challenge this year to sign up.”

There will be a half mile category for swimmers aged 12 or over as well as the choice of one or two mile and 5km distances for those aged 16 and over.

Participants can enter as an individual or as a group in the 2014 Great East Swim Team Challenge.

Groups should be of between four and eight swimmers and there will be categories for men, women and mixed. The accumulated first four finish times in each team will count and the fastest overall team in each category will be awarded an engraved trophy, with second and third places in each category also awarded prizes.

For those who prefer to be at the water’s edge, the Great East Swim provides a great day out for supporters who are able to picnic and watch the spectacle of hundreds of swimmers splashing into the water in staggered waves throughout the day.

As well as the swim challenge, there will be a farmers’ market offering the best of Suffolk’s producers.

Entry to the Great East Swim costs £27 for half-mile, £33 for one mile, £37 for two miles and £39 for 5km per person.

Visit www.greatswim.org to enter or for more information.