MORE than 100 members of Swindon Amateur Swimming Club past and present came together to celebrate the club’s 140th birthday.

To mark the occasion, a family fun day was organised at Swindon Supermarine FC’s ground.

In spite of a torrential downpour, participants took on the It’s a Knockout-style obstacle course.

People were put in teams and competed in leagues of either adults, teens, or children.

Andrea Christmas, president of the club, said: “It was a brilliant day and one that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

“The inclement weather just added to the fun and all who took part, and the many that spectated, had an amazing day.

“To be able to witness the excitement on the kids’ faces as well as the adults’ was truly something special – this is why we put events of this kind on.”

Andrea added: “Swindon ASC is proud to be the third oldest swimming club in the country with its history closely aligned to the GWR.

“We as a club are still thriving today and we hope to achieve another 140 years!”

Other activities included a ball-filled foam pit, an inflatable slide and a group sack-race which proved to be the undoing of many.

The club began in 1878 at Coate Water but soon found its home at Milton Road Baths when it opened in 1892.

For many years the club was strictly men only, then a ladies’ section was started in 1902 - sessions with both genders were not mixed until 1964.

Several past members came along to the event and enjoyed the display of trophies and photos documenting the club’s 140-year history.

According to the president of the venue, this club was one of the only places of this nature to remain open through both the world wars and it was due to the link between them and the railway.

The oldest past member to attend was Anne Titchener who joined the club in 1945 and was given the honour of cutting the cake.

Anne said: “I was honoured to be asked.

“I look back on my swimming days at the club with fondness and so many memories come flooding back.

“My brother and sister also used to be apart of ASC, it was a great family place.”

Andrea is now collecting photos to go towards the record of the swimming club’s history and she wants people to send in what they have to andreajchristmas@googlemail.com