The annual Thomas Smith Christmas Charity Swim held in aid of The Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation (MCCFF) will not be held this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is with deep regrets that we have to announce that the 2020 Thomas Smith Christmas Charity Swim will not be held this year”, said Liana Cachia, event organiser and Thomas Smith’s Marketing & HR Director.

For the past 21 years, this event has been a prominent way to raise much-needed funds for charity.

The Charity Swim, traditionally held on the pier below Independence Garden in Sliema, has seen all types of adrenaline-rushed participants along the years – from enthusiastic toddlers to veteran swimmers, locals and tourists, humans and pets alike. It is truly an event which unifies the crowd in a morning of laughter and splashes, ending the year in epic style.

Given last year’s cancellation, an alternative location in Sliema was sourced. The 2019 edition had to be cancelled at the last minute due to unfavourable weather conditions. The Company, after consultation with the Civil Protection Department, had decided to hold off the event since the sea swell could be potentially hazardous to swimmers.

€4,000 were raised and presented to H.E. George Vella, President of Malta, at San Anton Palace, despite the cancellation. Ever since its inception, the Group, together with the swimmers’ donations have collected just over €124,000.

Due to the current pandemic restrictions and to ensure no one is put at risk, the management has decided to cancel this year’s event and look forward to a better and safer 2021 Christmas Charity Swim.

We will miss you all!