Arc jumps in to rescue swimming meet

Monday, 15 October 2012 13:48

Arc Leisure Matlock has the "wow factor" - that's the verdict after the Derbyshire Dales District Council facility jumped in to rescue a regional swimming league meeting last weekend.

A double booking at another pool outside the district meant the West Midlands Arena Swimming League was desperate for a top quality venue on Saturday evening.

Arc staff, led by Chris Dening and Scott Turner, took the plunge and hosted the event at late notice for teams from as far afield as Stratford, Falcon, Rykneld, Biddulph, Witney and Mansfield.

Tracey Canavan-Taylor from host club Mansfield SC said:

"An absolutely amazing time was had by all. The Arc pool is fantastic and everyone is still talking about it.

"When I got there it was wow! The atmosphere was amazing and considering it was such short notice, manager Paul Blakemore and his Arc staff should be very proud of what was achieved. Nothing was too much trouble and it was a pleasure to feel such welcome and interest. The whole facility is awesome - nice, bright and airy, not too hot not too cold, which is always good.

"We had a memorable evening and hope to be back soon."

Since opening in August last year, the District Council's Arc Leisure Matlock has already hosted the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) Regional Championships and is the training centre for elite Derventio eXcel swimming squad early on Saturday mornings

Chairman of Derbyshire Dales District Council's Community Committee Councillor Mrs Carol Walker said:

"We designed the eight-lane main pool at Arc with a moveable floor that meets regional competition standards and that meant we were geared up to rescue Saturday's Arena League meeting.

"Arc Leisure Matlock is a continuing success story and it's great to receive excellent feedback about the quality of Arc's facilities and staff not only from the community it serves so well, but also from top class coaches and swimmers."