This month, as part of Rossendale’s Year of Sport, the focus turns to swimming, celebrating the dedication and achievements of Bacup Swimming Club and its members.
The Sport in the Valley campaign is part of the Rossendale Physical Activity and Sport Strategy, a year-long initiative celebrating the clubs and community groups that keep Rossendale active. Each month highlights a different sport, from grassroots to competitive level, aiming to bring people together and encourage daily participation in physical activity.
Based at Marl Pits, the club is proud to recognise the commitment of its swimmers, volunteers and young leaders who help keep the club thriving. With training sessions held every Monday evening from 7:00pm to 9:30pm, Bacup Swimming Club welcomes swimmers from the age of five through to adults.
As a non-competitive club, the emphasis is on developing swimming skills through fun, encouragement and teamwork. A key part of the club’s ethos is teaching essential life-saving skills, helping members build confidence both in and out of the pool.
Once swimmers reach the age of 14, they are invited to take part in special life-saving sessions designed to prepare them for future qualifications. Recently, nine members successfully completed their STA Pool Lifeguard course, all passing with flying colours. They are now qualified lifeguards, a fantastic achievement for both the individuals and the club.
The club’s continued success is thanks to its dedicated team of volunteers, teachers and helpers, many of whom are young people gaining valuable experience in coaching and leadership. Bacup Swimming Club is chaired by Richard Macdonald, with Sue Holt serving as secretary.
With around 100 members and a waiting list due to high demand, the club continues to go from strength to strength.
Cllr Liz McInnes, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Health, said: “Bacup Swimming Club is a great example of the community spirit and dedication that keeps Rossendale active. It’s fantastic to see young people learning important life-saving skills and developing confidence through swimming. The club’s volunteers deserve real recognition for their hard work and commitment.”
For updates and more information, visit the club’s Facebook page: Bacup Swimming Club