Swimming outfit still afloat after 125 years
ASWIMMING club that has helped members ranging from enthusiastic beginners to an Olympic competitor has celebrated its 125th anniversary.
Macclesfield Amateur Swimming Club, based at Macclesfield Leisure Centre, marked the milestone with a fun gala.
It formed in 1893 and originally operated out of the now demolished Davenport Street Baths - where people visited but not always to swim.
Sue Nichols, current chairperson of the club, said: “People were unlikely to go to the baths to swim, even though there was a pool.
“Instead they often went to have a bath as in those days people didn’t have bathrooms or much in the
way of indoor plumbing. The alternative was a tin bath in front of the fire.
“The swimming club was formed later on that year and the first gala went ahead. One of the trophies awarded that night is still in use today.
“As a member of the swimming club you could still get a discounted public swim for 3d not 4d. The club’s long held philosophy of making swimming fun and safe at a reasonable price with no waiting list, still endures to this day.”
Over the years members of the club have included British champion Fred Bramhall, Brenda Sherratt, the first person to swim Loch Ness, and Steve Mellor - who competed at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
In order to make swimming affordable and accessible all helpers and committee members are volunteers and fees are reviewed annually.
Three galas are held every year with all children - regardless of their ability - encouraged to take part.
The one to celebrate 125 years would have taken place last year - the actual anniversary year - but the pool was closed for work.
Among those to see the benefit of the club is MP David Rutley, whose daughter went there as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award.
He said: “The club has always been and continues to be committed to helping local residents in and around Macclesfield learn how to swim and build their confidence in water.
“I would particularly like to thank the club’s dedicated team of volunteers.”
The club, which also regularly raises money for charity, meets every Tuesday evening for swimming, synchronised swimming and water polo sessions.
Anyone interested in joining or volunteering can call 07436 883759.