News release 2 October 2006

Cash boost for Chapeltown Amateur Swimming Club

A small, locally run swimming club based at Chapeltown Swimming Baths in the North of Sheffield have received £250 from Abbey’s Community Partnership Group (CPG), enabling the club to invest in much needed tracksuits to wear at swimming galas. The cheque was formerly presented to the club at Chapeltown Baths during one of its training sessions in the presence of Angel Smith, MP for Sheffield’s Hillsborough District.

Coach Bob Grayson was grateful for Abbey’s contribution, “Our swimmers work hard to improve their technique and stamina for competitive galas, being able to turn up to these competitions in a club tracksuit will definitely boost the team spirit and the swimmers’ confidence.”

The club, which has almost 100 swimmers, receives no Council or local parish funding despite serving the local communities including Chapeltown, High Green, Grenoside and Ecclesfield, as well as attracting many swimmers from surrounding areas such as Rotherham and Barnsley - all running costs for the club is funded through members’ subscription fees and club fund raising.

David Webster of Abbey’s CPG in Sheffield making the presentation said “Abbey is delighted to be helping the swimming club which provides an excellent competitive swimming training for the local community.”

Group photo of (starting top left) Bob Grayson (Club Coach), Tom Barlow (Club Chairman), David Webster (Abbey), Angela Smith (MP). Middle & bottom row, some of the swimmers from Chapeltown ASC.

Angela Smith (MP) and Tom Barlow (Club Chairman).