Swim team start fundraising bid for new pool to save their club

Fareham Nomads have trained swimmers up to world standard for 44 years but now need a new pool.

Since 1974 its some 250 members have used the pool at West Hill Park School, in Titchfield.

Beginners have been transformed to world record holders under their tutelage.

But now due to the age of the pool and the increasing numbers of repairs needed, the team has decided to build a new pool to secure the future of the club.

Emma Rowsell, chair of trustees for at the club, said: '˜Forty four years later and the swimming pool at the school is becoming old, resulting in ever increasing costs to maintain the necessary standards.

'˜The pool is also coming towards the end of its useful life.

'˜As the pool is the main training location for Fareham Nomads if nothing were to be done then the future of the club could be at risk.'

Emma approached West Hill Park School to see if the replacement pool project would be viable within the school grounds.

Governors reviewed the plan and said piece of land could be used if the school has full access during the school day for pupils.

Fareham Nomads will fully manage the new pool, providing swimming lessons and coaching to its own members, local residents and other groups outside of times used byt he school and club.

The club, which currently has over 250 members, including more than 200 local children, is now seeking to obtain planning permission and start fundraising. 

Emma added: '˜Fundraising will be a large focus in funding the development of the site and this will fall under the control of Fareham Nomads Swimming Club.

'˜West Hill Park School will also plan to undertake its own fundraising, linked to its centenary, with a view of providing additional funds to purchase items for the internal fabrication of the new build.

'˜This is an exciting development of a much-improved swimming facility for the club, school and local community.'

For more information regarding fundraising or sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected]

To donate visit mydonate.bt.com/charities/farehamnomads