A SWIMMING club has praised the commitment of its members following a ‘disjointed’ time while between pools.

Andover Swimming and Waterpolo Club (ASWPC) were without a local facility for seven months between the closure of Andover Leisure Centre pool and the launch of the temporary facility in Shepherds Spring Lane last month.

Now the organisation is thanking the parents and swimmers who have stayed with the club during this time.

ASWPC said membership has fallen by up to a third since March but added the club has now ‘settled well into the temporary pool.’

Club committee member Karen Campbell-Fotheringham said: “It is a great feeling and relief to be back in Andover.”

Some dedicated members travelled up to three times a week for sessions held in Romsey, Basingstoke and Aldershot.

Karen added: “The club was very disjointed being spread between different locations.

“Parents are relieved to not have to travel a 90 minute round trip to Romsey twice a week or battle the A303 on a Friday evening heading to Hart.

“The parents and swimmers alike are enjoying their new routine with much less travel.”

“It means a great deal to the club that parents and swimmers have stayed with the club.”

ASWPC, which is run by volunteers, liaised with other clubs to source pool time, arrange for swim teachers and coaching to cover the sessions.

It also worked with Places for People to work out a suitable new timetable for the club to operate at the temporary facility.

The club treasurer added: “We are now in our third week back in Andover and things are looking up. The club celebrated its 80th year, our new coach has started and the swimmers were presented with our new club hat to celebrate 80 years and as a start to a new club kit.”

The club has also thanked Places for People, The Aquadrome at Basingstoke and Hart Swimming Club for their support while the club was without a home.

To join the group’s waiting list, email your details, including current swimmin ability to membership.aswpc@gmail.com or visit andoverswimming.co.uk.