Angela Dowding now Angela Board 

Angela, Life Member Of Bridgwater Swimming Club, was a teacher for the Club from the mid 1970 and for most of the 1980s.  She always taught the non-swimmers and those who were just learning to swim at the Burnham Pool and the Lido (The old Bridgwater Swimming Pool, now Morrison’s Supermarket)  Many hundreds of swimmers can thank Angela for acquiring the skills so necessary to be able to enjoy their time in the water

Angela is a married mum living in Conwy North Wales. In 2002 she formed the Conwy Whales Swimming Club for disabled children starting with 6 members and 4 volunteers

The following is a report in the Official Newsletter of Sports Conwy Autumn 2006 edition:-

With the help of NicolaTennant and Ian Martin, Conwy County BoroughCouncil’s Disability Sport Development Officers, and Community Chest funding, the club now has 26 members and 15 volunteers, of which 6 have achieved the level 1teaching award, and 3 have achieved the level 2 award.

The club gives volunteers the opportunity to improve their qualifications through attending various courses.

Founder member Angie Board, one of the qualified swimming teachers, started the club to provide children with the opportunity to participate in swimming, regardless of their disability. Swimming can be of particular benefit to people with a disability as it promotes mobility, flexibility, strength, confidence and independence.

The sessions consist of 45 minutes of structured swimming lessons, and 15 minutes of supervised free play, incorporating the slide and water features, giving parents / carers the opportunity to socialise.

A gala last Christmas was very well attended and was a huge success. Gerwyn Owen National Manager for Disability Swimming sponsored the gala and presented medals to all competitors.

A regular visitor to the club is ex-Paralympic swimming coach Mrs Chris Harris, who has always given positive feedback and guidance.  Her help has been invaluable to the club.

The club has recently purchased club costumes / trunks, swim bags and t-shirts for every member. The club hopes to further expand its membership, and its competitiveness

On behalf of the members we would like to thank the committee, volunteers, Nicola Tennant, Ian Martin,Gerwyn Owen and Chris Harris for all their help and support.