Shropshire swimming club under threat of closure
Shrewsbury Amateur Swimming Club has been running for 128 years.
A swimming club in Shropshire could be forced to shut its doors for good, unless it can raise vital funds to continue.
Shrewsbury Amateur Swimming Club, founded 1894, has lost over £15,000 in income which is said to be due to the closure of the main Quarry pool, a drop in member numbers and the long term impact of Covid.
The club has raised £8,000 to support its efforts including a grant from Sports England, but needs to raise another £7,000 by mid-January.
Anna Fletcher, a local parent and Chair of Shrewsbury ASC said: “Swimming is more than just a sport to many of our members; it's a way of life. Being part of the Shrewsbury Swim Family is crucial to their wellbeing, not just physically but mentally.
“As someone with young children, it really upsets me to think that our club, which has provided a service to the town for 128 years, might have to close for good. We are working so hard to save our club but are still short by some way - we really need people to step up on this!”
One parent who would be impacted by the club’s closure is Moray Hayman. She said: “We never saw our daughter as a County qualifying club swimmer but in the short 8 months she’s been part of Shrewsbury she’s gone from being a shy, reserved swimmer to a strong, determined swimmer with a passion for smashing her goals every time she walks through the doors, supported by the incredible coaches!
“Covid hit our daughter hard - she was only 9 when it began and lost a lot of confidence. This is now a distant memory as she goes from strength to strength in her swimming training and competing. Without the club I’m not sure where we would be, as we recognise not only our daughter's advancements but also her communication with adults, her new friends, her focus and concentration at school and her healthier attitude to life.”
Councillor Alex Wagner, who represents Bowbrook, said: “Shrewsbury Swimming Club provides a really important service to the health and wellbeing of young people across our town. The team are working incredibly hard to raise money to keep their doors open, and provide that service for another 128 years.
“We live in a wonderful town with a wonderful community, and I know people are capable of huge generosity here - this is a cause well worth supporting if you are a resident or business who can help.”
The club has set up a crowdfunder page which people can donate to.