Adults have swimming lessons for Free at Rye Sports Centre
The partnership between Rother District Council, Freedom Leisure and the Amateur Swimming Association has seen 72 benefit from up to 6 free swimming lessons. Adults from17 To 85 years of age have taken part and gained water confidence through the tuition of staff from the Centre.
Targeted groups included over 60’s, parents or guardians of under 5’s and college students. The scheme is a great opportunity for over 60’s to learn to swim or increase their confidence in the water and it was felt that carers of children would be unlikely to take youngsters swimming if they themselves lacked swimming skills. A further course was also run for college age children to ensure 16- 24 yearolds who lack water confidence do not miss out on the benefits of swimming but the chance to do other watersports with their friends. The success of the project has also enabled the scheme to obtain a London 2012 Inspire Mark. Mrs Rison said “I wanted to learn to swim properly before my holiday. I really enjoyed the lessons and can now swim much better.” Mr Edwards said “my swimming strokes have greatly improved thanks to the wonderful teachers and I am looking forwards to moving on to the improver classes.”
Swimming is a skill for life and though the Rother District is a coastal area with several inland lakes and streams many are still frightened of water. It is also a great way of getting fit and almost anybody can do it regardless of age. Swimming forms part of the Energise programme offered to members at freedom leisure in Rye.
To celebrate the achievement of the swimmers, certificates will be provided on 25 June at the 2012 open weekend. Additionally during the 2012 Open Weekend Celebrations Swimming Lessons will be showcased along with other activities in the centre. There will be details of additional 2 free courses that will be run for the first 24 people who sign up on the day.
Release Date: 16/07/10
