The Baths became essential to Tracey Hale's recovery as she attempted to combat the exhaustion and fatigue left over from Covid and pneumonia, but the centre requires extensive renovations to safeguard it.
A Swimathon, which is planned for June 11, is the latest fundraising effort devised to help reopen the site’s Pacific pool, together with funding for structural work and the onsite gym.
With only its Atlantic pool currently in use, the Union Street centre is estimated to be running at a £6000 a month deficit.
The resource is managed by the Swimming Association, a charity which relies on fundraising and donations to pay for its upkeep. The Baths have seen generations of Chester residents learn to swim and it is hoped that through the funds raised, this will be able to continue.
Tracey Hale, who first visited the baths whilst at school, contracted Covid in October 2021 and spent time in the intensive care unit at the Countess of Chester Hospital, after developing pneumonia alongside the virus.
“I was very ill; swimming has been my sanity. At the end of January, I could just about put my foot in the pool, because I had no strength.
“The staff and the volunteers [at Chester Baths] were so fantastic and I’m now swimming at least four times a week.”
Tracey says that the British Lung Foundation had advised her to try swimming as it is proven to help those with lung conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular damage (which is a possible side affect of Covid) to regain lung capacity.
“I was able to get back around 86 percent of my lung capacity [using swimming].
“My breathing and physical and mental health have improved massively, and it is all down to Chester City Baths.
“I wanted to give something back for what they’ve done for me and the care they’ve provided.”
The social worker, who was born and raised in Chester, has been a part of several fundraising efforts over recent months. The latest event, organised by Trevor Warner, sees adults and children of all ages and abilities welcomed to the Atlantic pool for a Swimathon on Saturday June 11 between 2.45pm and 3.45pm.
With no set distance, the event hopes to be a relaxed atmosphere where residents can enjoy a swim whilst raising money that will help ensure the Baths can re-open its Pacific pool and gym. The current target of £2,000 has already been surpassed, with almost £10,000 being provided so far.
The centre is also encouraging locals to get involved through the Friends of Chester City Baths scheme in which people are able to support by regularly donating any amount from £10.00. The scheme will also provide them with the chance to use specific Friends of Chester City Baths pool sessions once both pools have reopened.
For more information on the baths visit: https://www.chestercitybaths.com/ and to sign up for the Swimathon email citybathsmedia@hotmail.com or call 01244 320898 with you name and number. Donations for the Swimathon can be made using the link: https://www.spacehive.com/open-the-training-pool.
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