Sarah Dines MP the Sheila Kirkland Community Swimming Pool in Wirksworth following the government announcement last week that pools can reopen soon.
Sarah said, ‘Following my meetings with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport The Rt Hon Oliver Dowden MP and Nigel Huddleston MP Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Sport in the past few weeks, I am delighted to say that our much loved outdoor swimming pools will be able to open from 11TH July and indoor pool and sports from 25th July. This past weekend I visited the Sheila Kirkland Community Swimming Pool in Wirksworth and I was delighted to be shown around by Jannine McCarthy and the Wirksworth pool team to see first-hand the brilliant work they do at the facility. I was impressed with the preparations for re-opening in accordance with the new guidelines and with their massive enthusiasm for the pool.
I was quite touched by the facilities offered to learner swimmers and how they are encouraged young people to learn how to swim. I had earlier met a young girl on her bicycle at the Wirksworth cricket club who proudly told me she had learned to swim at the pool. Her parents shared her pride and praised this great community asset.
I was given a little of the history of the pool and the various stages of its renovation and extension over recent years and those who had kindly contributed towards the project, including individuals of all political persuasions. This is a great example of community hard work, well done.
I was moved by the description by Paul Hunter, headteacher of Elton Church of England Primary School, of the special arrangements put into place for all levels of learner swimmers including those with special educational needs.
Community facilities like this are so very important and highlight the value of communities working together. Wirksworth is very lucky to have passionate local people who push projects like this forward.
I wish the pool the best of luck with the imminent opening.’
