Carnforth Swimming Pool, Then and Now

John Blowes


Our President, John Blowes was the speaker at our meeting on Thursday, 30th January. The title of John's illustrated talk was "The History of Carnforth Swimming Pool - Then and Now".
Accidents involving drowning occurred when, in many cases, the person was unable to swim. In the 1970s fund raisng for a swimming pool was carried out with the aim to offer physical and mental benefits of being able to swim. Fund raisers included a "Spectacular Battle of Carnforth" as well as " Buy a Brick".
In 1974 construction began and the pool was opened in 1978.
When in 2018, the pool was likely to be closed, Lancaster City Council handed over the pool to a Charitable Trust formed with the responsibility for all aspects of operating and maintaining the pool. Over a period of years the maintenance had been neglected and much new replacement of the infrastructure was needed. Grants were obtained and volunteers including many trades people worked to achieve the repairs and necesary updating to modern standards for the facilities.
The pool employs 3 full time staff qualified as teachers and a number of suitably qualified volunteers. Lifeguards from this group of people are always on duty. Twenty Primary schools regularly bring their pupils for swimming lessons. Activities arranged for learners, parent child groups, and for those who prefer highly intensive or gentle exercise. There is also an opportunity to gain the RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification through the training on offer at the pool.
A coffee shop with a viewing area has now been built further enhancing the facilities. 

Later this year, Carnforth Rotary plan to organise a Swimathon for sponsored swimmers to raise funds for a Rotary supported International charity.

Ken McGrath

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