Forres Bluefins Swimming Club re-launches with new coaching team

ONE of the town's most successful sports clubs is bouncing back following a period of suspension due to running issues.

Forres Bluefins - founded in 1975 and which now has 60 members - was suspended last November by ruling body Scottish Swimming due to failure to comply with guidance regarding child protection safety qualifications.

However, chairwoman Joanne Ross confirmed, having voted in a new committee of parent volunteers in January, the club is ready to win again.

She said: "A new committee has taken over and it is up-and-running again, despite the issues we faced.

"Our new committee of parent volunteers have worked hard with Scottish Swimming to make sure the club is accountable and compliant with all regulations and guidance. This has resulted in the suspension being lifted.

"We are all working away to ensure the safety, inclusivity and welfare of our swimmers with five qualified, registered and PVG-checked coaches and four more undergoing training."

She added: "Our trainee coaches are able to do the course due to sponsorship from local businesses Ingram Builders, Fraser Fire and Security Service, Tony's Driving Training Centre, Ian Fraser Painter and Decorator, Maclean's Highland Bakery and White and Company Removals.

Bluefins, based at Forres Swimming Pool and affiliated with Scottish Swimming’s North District and Sport Moray, ran a competition for its members on Saturday, June 10 and 17.

Joanne said: "We hope to host our own meet in the near future with clubs from all over the district.

"We have also been selected as one of nine organisations to join Moray's Mental Health Charter for physical activity and sport, out of 24 applications.

"This will help us create a stigma-free, inclusive environment for our members."

For more information see https://www.forresbluefins.co.uk/