Spalding Amateur Swimming Club to celebrate 90th anniversary

A swimming club will be celebrating its 90th anniversary with a special event later this year.

Spalding Amateur Swimming Club started in March 1934 and is still run by volunteers who now teach adults and children how to swim in the Castle Sports complex.

Its 90th anniversary celebrations will take place later this year at the South Holland Centre and is open to members and those who want to join the festivities.

Susan Briers, membership secretary, said: “We are a thriving club and it is our aim to teach children to swim and to enjoy swimming.”

“The 90th is something we need to celebrate, it is a big thing for us and we aim to get to 100 in another ten years.

“It is amazing when we think we are all volunteers and it has kept going since 1934 but we do struggle for leaders.”

Lessons take place on Tuesday nights between 6pm and 10pm and various classes are available for learners, lane swimming, adults and is linked with water polo.

Life saving skills are taught to youngsters and their swimming lessons help to improve their technique, exercise and build up their stamina.

Mrs Briers said: “We live in an area that has a lot of lakes and rivers and if they get out of depth they know how to get themselves out of trouble so it gives them the confidence.

“Families may want to holiday abroad and mostly the children want to swim in the summer so it is a good all round skill that children need to learn too.

“It is enjoyable too with fun sessions at the end of the lessons so it gives them a bit of play time and it is good exercise.”

New members and volunteers are always encouraged to join.

Mrs Briers said: “We are not a competitive swimming club but some members wanted to and South Lincs Competitive Club was born from that.

“At the moment it is thriving and we have a good waiting list for the younger members.

“We need new people on the committee and helpers or unfortunately the club could fold which would be a loss to the community and for the children.”

Some volunteers help from the poolside and it can be a useful addition to a CV or in completing a Duke of Edinburgh award.

The anniversary party will take place on Saturday, October 12 at the South Holland Centre from 7pm-10pm where there will be a disco, buffet , raffle and bar.

Printed tickets are available to members to buy and collect on a Tuesday night at the club and the event is open to non members at £10 per adult and £4 for any non member child

Visit Spalding Amateur Swimming Club - SASC on Facebook for further information.