SWIMMING is an 'essential life skill' and one as many children as possible will be given the opportunity to do learn, the manager of a Northwich leisure centre has said.

It was announced last week that an agreement had been reached with Brio Leisure to restructure its timetable to allow slots to be made available for local primary school children.

A swimming crisis in the town had been exacerbated by the announcement in April of the permanent closure of the pool at Sir John Deane’s College.

Paul Hesketh, facility manager at Northwich Memorial Court said: “The shortage of school swimming has been a concern for all parties in the Northwich and Winsford areas following the closure of the pool at Sir John Deane’s College, and this has been further impacted through the loss of swimming time due to the Covid lockdowns.

“Our aquatics lead has worked hard in cooperation with Chris Story (development manager at Vale Royal School Sport Partnership) to overcome some of these challenges to find a short-term solution including top up sessions for those schools who have been unable to swim in this academic year. 

Northwich Guardian: Sir John Deane's College in NorthwichSir John Deane's College in Northwich

“We’re now in the process of organising school swimming for the next academic year and are working with Chris and CWAC to put some longer-term measures in place.

“Everyone at Brio Leisure is passionate about making sure as many children as possible are able to learn to swim as an essential life skill as well as meeting the key stage two requirements, so I’m delighted that we’ve been able to find solutions and we’ll continue to work with our partners to do so.

The news was also welcomed by Cheshire West and Chester Council leader Louise Gittins, who said: “It’s great that Brio, the council and partners are working together to ensure that schools can access swimming pool space and that children are able to learn such a valuable life skill.”

Our readers also welcomed the news on our Facebook page, but some called for more swimming options in the long-term.

Gaynor Sinar was one them, posting: “Perhaps some space in Barons Quay could have a pool or Weaver Square in all the demolished area.

“Eight lanes this time. With all our rivers, children need to learn to swim in our area.”

Ailsa Underwood agreed, commenting: “There will still be a huge need for private lessons as well.

“Moss Farm should never have been closed so now the council should support Sir John Deane’s to refurbish their pool.”

Russell Dean posted: “They should be looking at building a purpose built facility to teach kids to swim from all schools within a 10-mile radius.”