It was MEGA from the Marlins..

Every year Belper Marlins raise money for a charity in their local area.  Last year they chose Parkinsons, as one of their past coaches is now suffering with the disease.  This year the connection had an even greater swimming link.  Alfreton Park Special School are in the process of having their present old and tired pool demolished and a new one put in its place.  Obviously swimming is an essential tool that the teachers there can use to bring freedom and stimulation to the physically and mentally impaired children that attend the school.  A great deal of fund raising has already taken place at their and the Marlins wanted to add their support. 

Belper Leisure Centre Pool was kicked into a frenzy as children from as young as eight years old swam repeatedly up and down to achieve distance badges and raise money for the project.  By the end of the evening the distance covered by the youngsters, if added together, would have stretched from Belper to Birmingham and back again!  Many of the swimmers swam an amazing 2 to 3km each within the hour!

It is hoped that the shared joy that the children at the club feel about swimming can now be passed on to those at Alfreton Park.  A representative from the school stated that the freedom and joy swimming gives to the disabled children is sensational.  With the money raised by the Marlins it is hoped that additional equipment can be bought for the pool to make it more stimulating and generally better equipped.  Money is presently pouring in and in a few weeks’ time some of the Marlins may visit the school to meet the students, hand over a cheque and possibly go for a swim with them!  Kids together all appreciating the fun that can be had out of swimming!