Dovorians are the least likely to swim regularly in England, according to data published by Diabetes UK.

The league table, based on Sport England data, revealed that 4.73% of the adults in Dover say they swim weekly.

In comparison to other Kentish towns, there isn’t much difference.

Canterbury achieved 5.83%, Medway 5.71% and Tunbridge Wells with 5.94%.

This revelation coincides with Diabetes UK’s Swim 22 challenge, which encourages people to swim 22 miles, which is the length of the Channel and can be completed at a local swimming pool.

People can take part in this from February 22 to May 22.

Jill Steaton, the South East regional manager for Diabetes UK, said:

“Although Dover is right at the bottom of the league table of regular swimmers with other areas in Kent also performing poorly, this doesn’t have to be bad news. - Jill Seaton, Diabetes UK.

“Swimming is a great way of getting your regular physical activity and because many people find it

“We want these results to challenge everyone in the area to make a splash in their local pool and give swimming a go.

"It is something they may be more likely to stick to in the long run.”

She added: “This is why Swim 22 is such a great way to support Diabetes UK.

“As well as raising money to help us continue with our vital work in supporting people with diabetes and those at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, Swim22 can also be the spur you need to take swimming up and to challenge yourself to get fitter.

“Also, because you can do the 22 miles over three months, you can gradually build up your fitness and hopefully make swimming regularly a habit you end up sticking to.”