Thousands of people sported their swimsuits and goggles and took the plunge for the Medway Big Splash over the weekend.

The massive water extravaganza, at Medway Park in Gillingham and Strood Sports Centre, was the first of its kind staged by Medway Council.

Organisers said the two-day event was a great success.

Tina Spry, from the council’s sports team, said: “There was nobody spectating, it was all about participation. Mums and dads were not watching from the side, they were in the water having fun with their children.

“It has been what we wanted – very family-orientated. It’s been encouraging to see how many people have come to the centres for the first time.”

Activities at Medway Park on Saturday included diving, sub aqua, water polo and pool aerobics.

British international synchronised swimmer Amy Campbell put on a display and the programme at Strood included zumba, snorkelling and swimming lessons.

Both centres hosted family pool parties with inflatables and raft games, races and a disco. The mass swimming challenge to see how far Medway could swim in one day was due to be held yesterday (Sunday).

• For more pictures see Friday’s Medway Messenger.