A GROUP of Dalefolk have given it their all by swimming 1000 lengths in total to raise money to help Stanhope Open-Air Swimming Pool re-open after almost four years of closure.
The county’s only heated open-air pool closed in 2023 and has been a huge miss but all is not lost because of people like this group, led by Wolsingham’s Laura Alliston and Val McFarlane. The group also included John Coates and Matthew Lynn as well as some young people too. They all showed how much they cared about keeping facilities in Weardale by initially aiming for 804 lengths of a nearby swimming pool, which would have been equivalent to the ten miles round trip between Wolsingham and Stanhope but they became so focussed on swimming that the aim was far succeeded by almost another 200 lengths!
Their marathon quest has managed so far to raise over £3,000 towards the fund set up by the Stanhope pool volunteers who are working so hard to bring the facility back in time for next year’s season. The group has estimated that it will take around £50,000 to renovate and re-open the pool with much of the work done to date by volunteers and local tradesmen who have given their services for free. So far, £30,000 has been raised, an incredible feat.
Laura said that she felt very sad when the pool closed down like many others in the Dale. She had many wonderful memories of it herself growing up and added how important those memories are for many others.
“It is such a wonderful facility to have in Weardale, both for local people and as a boost for tourism. Swimming is such a great way to remain healthy, it helps both mental and physical ailments for both adults and for young people too.”
The group who took part in the swimathon included swimmers with an age range of eight to pensioners, including twins – well done to each and every one of you.
If you would like to donate to this cause and see the open-air pool re-open in time for next year go to: Laura Alliston is fundraising for Stanhope Swimming Pool LTD
