Over 20 children graduated from the Anguilla Red Cross Water Safety and Swimming Starters programme on Saturday 12th December 2015. The programme has been ongoing for the past three years, using the pool at Mr. John Ridgeway resident at South Hill. Swimming Instructor Mr. Joseph Williams has said there is a need for such a programme in Anguilla to teach both children and adults in water safety and how to swim. He believes the ability to swim can help to build self-confidence and can have a long term positive impact on overall life development.
He expressed gratitude to Mr. John Ridgeway for having made his pool available to the Anguilla the Red Cross at no cost over the past three years. A plaque of appreciation and pool supplies were presented to Mr. Ridgeway. In accepting the plaque, Mr. Ridgeway said it gave him great pleasure to see the children become fearless of the water and over time begin the small steps of swimming. He continued to say that Anguilla Red Cross is welcome to use his pool as they continue this important programme in the community.
Mr. William was also instrumental in seeking the support of donors, who wish to remain anonymous, in support of the Water Safety and Swimming Programme.
The donation consisted of:
5 Lifeguard Rescue Tube
5 Ring Buoy
10 Children Life Jackets
10 Adult Life Jackets
2 Spine Board with Head Immobilizer with spider Straps
The donors have been the visiting Anguilla for over 20 years and are now residents on the Island. In making the donation, the donors complimented the Red Cross in the work they are doing in this area and expressed concern of not seeing lifeguards on any of the Island’s beaches. They added that their small donation was in support of the great work the Red Cross is doing.
The Anguilla Red Cross water safety and swimming will continue in 2016. Persons who wish to sign up for classes or volunteer in support of the programme, can contact the office at 497-0406 or email info@redcross.org.ai
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
