Once again, we had a stall at the Cottenham Fun Run on Saturday May 12th, this time indoors, Unfortunately, by this point in time, the pool had not yet been commissioned for runners and spectators to see. Otherwise, the run and indoor market were very successful.
The Cottenham Outdoor Swimming Pool will open at the beginning of June, weather, lifeguard and supervisor availability permitting.
As you know, year in, year out, we need people to help in whatever small way, whether fund raising, supervising, taking money for coffees on the morning swimming sessions, or, if you’re trained, acting as lifeguard. The Pool is in the College grounds, but it is run by a small band of volunteers and is financed by gate fees and some external financial support.
We had a few problems with ad hoc pool closures last year, for which we apologise. This year, we will open those popular morning sessions (provided there is a lifeguard) regardless of the pool or air temperature. The Committee will decide when the Pool opens rather than the weather. Only lightning strikes and ice will preclude the opening of a swimming session.
Technical problems do arise, but are thankfully rare, but when problems arise, please remember the Cottenham Pool is a voluntary organisation, it is not run by the College, it is run by a small band of volunteers on behalf of the community, so any complaints should bear this in mind. If you have a gripe, let the committee know, or better still join the committee and action the improvements you have in mind.
This year’s biennial FEFF to be held weekend of June 22-24 will feature a massive swimming gala once again (Saturday 23rd June, 11am to 1pm, register from 10am to 11am, entrants 8 yrs+, 1 pound entry fee). There will also be a ‘Youthzone’ event for young people aged 14 or over: water volleyball (Sunday 24th June, 3:30pm to 5:30pm, register from noon to 3pm at the pool).
Ticket Prices: Adults £2.50, Concessions (Children and Senior Citizens) £2.00, Pre-schoolers FREE, Family (2+2) £7.50, Supersaver 12 swims for the price of 10.
Private Hire: £15 per hour for the pool itself, plus £10 per hour per lifeguard. For 27 swimmers or fewer, and no play equipment in the pool, 1 lifeguard is enough. For more swimmers or for floats and toys in the pool, you need 2 lifeguards. Book at least one week in advance, preferably two weeks in advance if you need 2 lifeguards.
Remember! If you volunteer to supervise a session (i.e. assist the regular lifeguard and take gate money) you get a free swim at another session!
Now, that we have nationally qualified lifeguards on our roster, the pool is available for private hire at a very reasonable rate, just £15 per hour, plus the lifeguard hourly rate. So, if you’d like to host a party with a difference, a fun family event, or a corporate swim-in get in touch (lifeguards@ cottenhampool.org.uk) for more information. (You can also contact us via email, but please give us at least a week’s notice for email bookings and please phone the above number to confirm if you don’t hear from us.)
As many of you will no doubt have seen, Geoff and Dave B were successful in the bid to secure a massive £20,000 of grant money from the Evolve EB/Donarbon Landfill Tax Credit Scheme. The refurbishment work was completed last year. This year, we need several new pieces of equipment, including the major expense of a pump. Anyone with ideas for grants to apply for, please come forward or email us on lifeguards@cottenhampool.org.uk (by the way, this is the new email address for ALL correspondence on pool matters from now on). Click the graphic for a slightly enlarged view you can actually read (if you have 20:20 as opposed to superhuman eyesight).
Unfortunately, very few people turned up for the AGM on April 19; just the central committee and a handful of others. Where were all those swimmers with new ideas to improve the pool and volunteers to take on the committee’s official roles?
Laura remains Chair, Helen has retired as treasurer and that role needs to be filled (any volunteers?), Glynis stays as secretary, although will gladly step into the treasurer’s shoes if a new secretary steps forward. Geoff will continue as CVC liaison officer. Dave B (Webmaster), Agustin, Mike, Dave M, Ron, Gill, Les (Pool Maintenance) remain as ordinary committee members. Thanks to those who turned up and committee members past and present for their tireless efforts and ongoing support. And, a warm welcome to new committee member Marie Bland who has been a long-time supporter of Cottenham Pool.
Cottenham opened its outdoor pool in 1967, which makes 2007 our 40th anniversary. The Pool is very much a community affair open to everyone throughout the Fen Edge Patch and beyond from May to September. You can find the volunteer-run pool in the grounds of Cottenham Village College opposite The Green. Why not offer us your help, you can do as much or as little as you wish and we offer free first-aid and pool supervision training as well as a free swim at another session. Please contact Laura for more details.
We held a cake stall in the run up to Christmas and raised almost two hundred pounds, so well done and thanks to all who helped, including Marie Bland and Sue and Mike Smith for the loan of their drive. If you have any fund raising ideas please get in touch.