SWIMMING: Earlier this year, Ipswich Snorkel Club approached The Evening Star in a 11th-hour bid to rescue its existence.After 30 years at the heart of the community, it had looked like the organisation might indeed have to fold altogether – simply because there weren't enough members to warrant weekly pool use.

SWIMMING

EARLIER this year, Ipswich Snorkel Club approached The Evening Star in a 11th-hour bid to rescue its existence.

After 30 years at the heart of the community, it had looked like the organisation might indeed have to fold altogether – simply because there weren't enough members to warrant weekly pool use.

But today, the Star can announce that the club's fortunes have already begun to turn in their favour and their immediate future certainly looks secure!

Over the last few weeks, the club has seen a dramatic turn-around in the dwindling number of snorkelling youngsters wanting to take part. Add that to the presence of a new club grant – and the picture has rarely looked brighter.

"We've really turned the situation around over the last three months and we're absolutely thrilled to think that our future is safe," commented club instructor Carl Studd.

"It's gone from a situation in which we felt like there was no hope of survival, to a feeling of complete and utter optimism all round.

"The reality is that we've now been able to sign up for another year of pool use and we really feel we're back on our feet."

Part of the turn-around came when Orwell Park School approached the club about bringing a regular group of boarding pupils to the weekly sessions.

A Scout group is also learning snorkelling skills with the team, and to cap it off, Ipswich Borough Council has awarded a £380 grant to the club.

"The grant is fantastic news," said Carl. "It means that we can buy more equipment and with that, it is easier for us to hold short courses throughout the year.

"Those short courses are far more likely to guarantee our survival."

Ipswich Snorkel Club will be taking part in the national Snork Week (starting 17 June), promoted by the British Sub-Aqua Club.

If you are interested in having your first taste of snorkelling through the club as part of this week, call club chairman Bob Cawston on Ipswich 601111, or Carl Studd on Ipswich 424641.