Clancy swim scheme makes a splash at National awards
GeneralA scheme that has taught more than 600,000 children to swim has gained national recognition.
Southern Water’s Learn to Swim programme was named Best Community Initiative at the Utility Industry Achievement Awards at the Grosvenor Hotel, London, last night.
On deciding the winner, judges said the entry, which was shortlisted alongside national companies npower and E.ON was “way out in front”.
Learn to Swim supports swimming lessons in 85 pools across the South East and has Olympic Gold medallist Duncan Goodhew and Paralympic Gold Medallist Sascha Kindred as its ambassadors.
The multi award-winning programme, which celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, has attracted praise from ministers and MPs.
In February, Hampshire MP Julian Lewis laid down an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons praising the scheme, its dedicated volunteers and the army of more than 1,000 swimming instructors.
Helen Sparkes, who co-ordinates the Learn to Swim programme, said: “With a 1,200km stretch of coastline bordering our region, and many miles of rivers and streams, we believe it’s important for a water company to help teach children to swim.
“This award is a fantastic endorsement of the hard work put in by everyone involved and marks the end of a great year for Learn to Swim.”
Marketing and Communications Manager for Clancy Docwra, Mark Sewell, Said, “We are delighted for Southern Water and are proud to sponsor the Learn to Swim initiative.”
Learn to Swim is supported by sponsors Clancy Docwra, 4Delivery, Morrison Utility Services, and BTU. For more information, go to:
