Olympic medallist makes a splash as swimming project launched

Dec 10 2007 by Jessica Shaughnessy, Liverpool Daily Post

Olympic medallist makes a splash as swimming project launched

OLYMPIC swimmer Duncan Goodhew has helped to launch a Merseyside scheme to encourage older people to swim.

The gold medallist kick-started the Wirral-wide Everyday Swim project at Leasowe Recreation Centre on Saturday.

Visitors were given the opportunity to meet him and get some expert tips.

New classes will be starting at leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough in January. These will include daytime Adult Learn To Swim classes and Aquajogging sessions.

Free sessions of aqua-aerobics are being offered to the over 50s. Grandparent and grandchild swimming sessions are also on offer. The project is being run by co-ordinator Fiona Pantrich.

Ms Pantrich is a qualified swimming instructor, lifeguard and aqua-aerobics instructor.

She said: “The benefits of swimming and being active are that it can help you live longer and feel better. It can also improve your mood and reduce your risk of illnesses such as diabetes, coronary heart disease and some forms of cancer.”