Swimmers of a certain age with creaky hips, knees and wrists don’t have to clamber up vertical ladders any more.
New access steps have been installed at Neston Recreation Centre by the Neston Over 50s Swimming Club. The club dipped into its funds and Neston Town Council dived in with an extra grant.
Centre operator Brio Leisure will insure, maintain and manage the new feature.
The club warmly welcomed Neston mayor Janet Griffiths as she commissioned the steps along with Brio Leisure manager Stuart Brown. Club chairman Sue Shipman thanked Brio for their co-operation.
Cutting the ribbon, Cllr Griffiths said: “I hope everyone enjoys their swimming. This is a good example of how partnerships between local government and voluntary organisations benefit everyone. “
Secretary Robin Hughes from the club said: “This is a club initiative to allow easier access for people with mobility-limiting conditions like arthritis.
“Swimmers with dodgy wrists, knees and hips don’t have to clamber up vertical ladders any more.”
The club dates back to a 1983 North West Sports Council campaign called Sports for All 50+. Neston Rec won a competition for ideas to promote the health of older people.
It was granted funds to set up the voluntary organisation which, 31 years later, still runs bi-weekly social swimming sessions and has a healthy membership.
It is unique in being the only sports organisation in Neston specifically for older people. New members are invited and can just turn up on Mondays or Fridays at 3.15pm for their free trial swim.
More details are available from 0151 336 3675 or email goldenage@talktalk.net
