Making a big splash

May 15 2008

THREE Hamilton schools’ swim teams won shields and medals at a gala finale held in Hamilton Water Palace.

Pupils from Townhill, Woodhead and St Elizabeth’s primaries took part in the event which was organised to celebrate young swimmers in South Lanarkshire who completed in the council’s Swim Safe Programme.

Over the past year, 18 primary schools and five secondaries have taken part in the initiative.

The programme provides swimming education for pupils. They take part in a 12-week swimming block with additional group or crash courses if necessary to help them swim the minimum 15m graduation distance.

They also participate in dry land and water based “Save a Life” modules which teach them basic first aid and emergency procedures as well as water safety and rescue techniques.

Councillor Gerry Convery, board chairman of South Lanarkshire Leisure Limited, commented: “We hope the young pupils have enjoyed participating and will continue this healthy pursuit for the rest of their lives.”