The Mayor and Mayoress of Margate, Cllr Jack Packman and Karen Brinkman, led the celebrations on Saturday, 20 July as Hartsdown swimming pool celebrated 50 years since its grand opening in 1974.
Almost 300 swimmers of all ages and backgrounds joined in with the festivities as people flocked from all over to have a dip on a warm summer’s day.
Hartsdown pool opened on Saturday, 20 July 1974 and was the district’s first indoor swimming facility. To mark the occasion, operator Your Leisure held a family fun day with free swimming and sports hall activities.
To open the fun day, the Mayor and Mayoress of Margate and Your Leisure MD Warren Reeves, delivered speeches to visitors, the Hartsdown Leisure Centre team and Your Leisure Sports Foundation members as well as competition winners.
The ceremony took place in the centre’s lobby where the original brass plaque, a 50-year-old symbol of the centre’s rich history, is displayed. After the speeches there was a prize presentation for the finalists and winner of the Hartsdown 50 Mascot competition.
Out of more than 30 entrants, five designs were shortlisted for the public vote back in June. Some 300 votes were cast and the winner was 9-year-old Vethumya, who attended with her family on the day. The Mayor and Mayoress presented Vethumya with her winning design incorporated into a special framed poster and a mountain bike courtesy of The Bike Shed Kent. The runners up also received prizes on the day for their wonderful efforts.
Warren Reeves said: “I grew up swimming at Hartsdown Leisure Centre, from lessons to club swimming, this centre holds a special place in my heart and I am so pleased that as Managing Director of Your Leisure, I can be part of the legacy and guide the centre into the future.
“I learned to swim here and we still run top-level swimming lessons which have seen thousands of children take that first step into the pool and guided them all the way to competitive swimming.
“Seeing so many people turn out to help us mark this occasion has been inspiring for the team here whose hard work keeps the centre running. I’d like to thank the Mayor and Mayoress for joining us and congratulations to our competition winners.
“The Hartsdown swimming pool, over its five decades of existence, has consistently encouraged and facilitated healthier, happier lifestyles for the community it serves, and this landmark anniversary was a testament to its enduring impact. The centre is not just for members, we are open to all.”
The Academy FM Thanet 107.8 roadshow kept the crowds entertained throughout the afternoon and the free sports and bouncy castle were popular for those waiting for their swimming slot to be called or those who just fancied staying dry.
Residents were also able to find out more about the gym and the FeelGood Factory toning suite with its accessible power-assisted exercise machines that help those with health and mobility conditions to lead an active lifestyle.
Your Leisure thanked the Mayor and Mayoress of Margate, the team at Hartsdown Leisure Centre, the competition finalists, Sports Foundation members, The Bike Shed Kent, Academy FM and everyone who joined the50th anniversary event.
Hartsdown Leisure Centre is open to members and non-members. You can book activities from swimming, to group exercise classes, badminton, gym and more at www.yourleisure.uk.com
Hartsdown Leisure Centre also runs Swimming Lessons and Gymnastics courses. Information on these can be found online at www.yourleisure.uk.com
The Your Leisure Sports Foundation is a dedicated programme that recognises and fosters sporting talent by offering discounted access to facilities. Learn more online at www.yourleisure.uk.com
