Charity event in memory of popular swimmer (From Wiltshire Times)

Charity event in memory of popular swimmer

3:00pm Friday 27th January 2012 in Latest News

Staff at Bradford on Avon Swimming Pool showed their support for Dorothy House Hospice with a 24-hour swim in memory of a well-known car salesman.

The event, which involved all the staff at the centre swimming in the pool in stints, began at 6pm on Thursday. It was held to remember John Angell, who died after a long battle with cancer in August last year.

Mr Angell, who ran GTI in Melksham for a number of years, swam regularly at the Bradford pool and had care provided by Dorothy House Hospice during his illness.

Wife Kerena Angell said: “John and I swam at the pool regularly and since his death the staff there have been so good to me. They have really rallied round and whenever I’ve looked down or upset they’ve been there for me. I can’t thank them enough.

“I think the fundraiser in Johnny’s memory in aid of Dorothy House was such a lovely idea, as they were so supportive to us throughout John’s illness.”

Mrs Angell and her two sons, Jamie and JJ, attended the start of the 24-hour swim, which is expected to raise around £1,000 in sponsorship.

Centre supervisor Fred Lapes, 21, who organised the event, said: “We did something similar last year for Comic Relief and raised about £1,700.

“So I thought it would be a nice idea to do something similar for John, as we all knew him really well and we wanted to do our bit to support Kerena and Dorothy House.

“All the staff at the centre were keen to get involved as a dedication to John’s memory and I’d like to thank our customers who have been donating money into the collection pots at reception.”

The sponsored swim was started by Bradford on Avon resident and former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, 49, who sounded an air horn to officially begin the 24-hour event.

She said: “It is so fantastic to see the team at Bradford on Avon Swimming Pool supporting Kerena so well.

“It shows what a lovely community there is in this town and what a great facility this pool is.

“The staff at the centre should feel very proud of themselves and I’d be pleased to support them and the centre again in the future.”

The centre remained open to the public during the event, with residents bringing drinks and snacks for participants.

Donations to the 24-hour swim are still being welcomed. For more information or to donate, call 01225 862970.