Paralympic champion Ollie Hynd backs Skegby mum's calls for swimming pools to reopen

Councillor Melanie Darrington teaches swimming and is also a mum to a competitive swimmer, 13-year-old Rebecca Darrington.

The Skegby Independent councillor for Ashfield District Council said the swimming world was “stunned” on Monday, after PM Boris Johnson announced plans to re-open virtually every industry – except leisure.

Ollie Hynd, who is backing the campaign and is also a four-time world champion, said: “I urge the Government to re-open our pools. We can do this safely. We risk losing a generation of swimmers if we don’t get them back in the pool. Millions across the country rely on swimming to maintain not only their physical health but also their mental health.”

Cllr Darrington said: “I am a swimming teacher and mum of a competitive swimmer. Swim England has been working with the government for weeks to get the pools open on July 4.

“Comprehensive guidelines have been produced so swimmers can safely return to the pool. If changing rooms need to stay closed - fine, it’s not a problem. If we need to ration lanes - fine we will do it, if our swimmers need to train in snorkels - they will do it no hesitation.”

Skegby mum Kelly Hill contacted Cllr Darrington. Her 12-year-old son Liam swims for Sutton Swimming Club and Nova swim squad.

Kelly said: “Liam doesn’t understand why cinemas, pubs and arcades can reopen when pools can’t.”

Melanie’s daughter, who swims with Sherwood Swimming Club and Nova swim squad said: “We need to know why.”

Ben Bradley Mansfield MP said: ‘‘I’m keen to see all of our sports and exercise facilities back open asap, including swimming pools which are really important for our collective physical and mental health. I’m pressing the Government to move fast. I understand a panel is looking at how best to safely get them open as soon as possible.”

Lee Anderson Ashfield MP said: “The health of our nation is important. I am talking with the Government daily to ensure we get the industry back on its feet”.

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