By Michelle Crean

It’s been quite a year for Dieter’s Swim Academy as they raised over €5,500 for two very worthy charities.

VISIT: Kerry legend David Clifford paid a surprise visit to Dieter's Swim Academy on Sunday last.

Crumlin's Children’s Hospital and the Irish Cancer Society were the beneficiaries and last week a special visitor made all the hard work worthwhile as Kerry footballer David Clifford dropped in.

“We at the swim academy would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped raise and donate the money for the 3 Lakes Challenge this year," Dieter Gogsch, swim coordinator, said.

"The two charities are very close to the hearts of the swim academy members and team of staff and we were delighted with the support and donations from everyone."

The children had to swim 15km (600 lengths of the pool) to complete the challenge a super achievement by all the children who participated, he explained.

"We also took our swimmers on some very enjoyable day trips as a treat for all their hard work, dedication and commitment to their swim classes throughout the year. Fun days out to Tayto Park, Kennedy's Pet Farm, Fota Alpine Skate Trail and Air-tastic Inflatable Park were had by some of the members of the swim academy.

"To top the year off our swimmers had a surprise visit last Sunday from Kerry legend David Clifford - a massive thank you to him for taking time out of his hectic schedule to meet and greet our swimmers and parents, take photos and sign autographs for them.

"We would like to say a huge thank you, a merry Christmas and a happy New Year to everyone who contributed to the success of the academy this year – from the fantastic team of swim instructors, to the kids and parents and of course the Aquila Club Leisure Centre, Gleneagle Hotel. We look forward to seeing you all back in the pool in January.”