On July 26, 1881, Alderman J Simpson Yeates and 24 youthful enthusiasts — some who could barely swim — launched Penrith Swimming Club on its adventurous voyage.
Alderman Simpson Yeates guided the club’s progress for the majority of his life, fulfilling chairman, secretary, treasurer and vice-president roles along the way.
Ian Powley, the current president of Penrith Swimming Club, said: “It is a celebration; a celebration that if you dare to dream, you must do your best to fulfil it.
“Simpson Yeates, a pioneer and inspiration to us all, gave hope to Penrith with his vision of creating opportunities for people through swimming. Today his dream is stronger than ever.”
For many years Penrith Swimming Club was based at Frenchfield with people taking to the water of the River Eamont. In 1931, a record number of 1,140 members made Penrith Swimming Club the largest swimming club in the world.
Training sessions originally involved great variations of conditions that challenged the skills of any swimmer. Icy water, strong currents, obstacles like weed and the odd eel or two provided the ultimate test of stamina.
It was all a far cry from conditions for today’s training sessions at Penrith Leisure Centre.
In 1993, the club funded the teaching pool, a later addition to the swimming baths. This then allowed the club to teach young aspiring swimmers.
The teaching pool is formally known as the Frenchfield Teaching Pool to recognise the contribution from the town’s swimming club.
Doug Huggon, a life member of the club, said: “Many local people still have fond memories of ‘going for a cool dip’ at Frenchfield.
Penrith Swimming Club was one of the first known school swimming providers, spearheaded by the legendary Jenny Birtle to create a water safe community that inspired the opening of the town’s indoor pool in the 70s.
“We are incredibly proud of the indelible legacy Penrith Swimming Club, and its members have created.”
Luke Brown, club coach and committee member, said: “While Alderman Simpson Yeates tested the limits of his imagination, our swimmers have continuously pushed the boundaries of human endeavour.
“Logic-defying performances have focused our community not on what holds you back but on what motivates and pushes you forward. Penrith swimmers have shown that with a strong mind and even stronger heart, you can achieve incredible feats.”
Club chairman Nigel Harling added: “To all those who have been involved in Penrith Swimming Club, I say thank you. It is you that transforms our perceptions, and it is you that opens the eyes of the community to what is possible in our club.
“With your passion connected, the club has not just delivered new horizons but limitless opportunities for all. We have done ourselves proud and our community even prouder!”
To find out more about the club visit www.penrithswimmingclub.co.uk
