Peter gives his time for free to help at pool (From Swindon Advertiser)

Peter gives his time for free to help at pool

2:10pm Friday 13th March 2009 in Search

A SELF employed tradesman is giving up his time to maintain the Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool in Swindon.

Pride of Swindon nominee Peter Foster, 50, from Old Town, has been repairing, upgrading and maintaining the facility free of charge for the last 20 years.

And his kindness has saved the association thousands of pounds.

The dad-of-two will put himself out no matter what time of the day or night to help others who use the pool.

The warm water is the prime essential requirement for hydrotherapy treatment.

“I feel quite humbled to be nominated,” said Peter.

“I don’t think I’m going out of my way to help at the pool – I just want to give something back to the community.

“I had been there on a job installing dehumidifiers. Then I found out my mum Brenda had (previously) assisted people swimming there.

“So I started going back on little projects. I’ve fitted new pumps, new mains supply and high rise lights onto the building.”

The facility in Jefferies Avenue, Upper Stratton, was opened in 1979 and is a purpose-built facility available to any individual with a disability.

Every week the pool averages 700 users. Since it opened the pool has been used more than 750,000 times.

The pool measures 13.5m by 6m and 0.8m to 1.5m deep.

The water is maintained at 92F.

Paul Charlwood, the manager of the Hydrotherapy Pool Association, nominated Peter for the award.

“Peter is one of life’s unsung heroes,” he said. “Finding a skilled tradesman who is prepared to give his time and skills free of charge is an absolute godsend.

“Peter has been a true friend to the pool utilising his skill as a qualified electrician to repair, upgrade and maintain many of the services and equipment at the pool in the early hours of the morning, in emergencies and at just asking for the cost of materials.

“Without prompting he has suggested improvements and upgrades that can be made.

“He has given up time at Christmas or other public holidays when we are able to get total access to the building to avoid inconveniencing pool users.

“He has taken part in sponsored events and even manned the tea and coffee stall at the Christmas bazaar.

“Peter’s contribution over the years has been invaluable in enabling us to continue providing the unique facilities for all of the community.”

For more information about the pool, please call 01793 496002 or visit www.thamesdownhydrotherapypool.com