SWIMMING enthusiasts will hold talks to secure the future of their sport in the borough.

The Amateur Swimming Association has encouraged the formation of a steering group - to ensure the requirements of promising young swimmers are met.

The move follows problems surrounding existing facilities in the area.

Darwen Leisure Centre's pool is nearly six feet shorter than the standard 25 metres required for Amateur Swimming Association competitions. Training and competitions are also hampered by the shortage of lanes.

Darwen Swimming Club secretary Pat Connell explained that some members are struggling at higher level events because of the inadequacies.

She said" "Darwen Leisure Centre's facilities are some of the best in the area. It is just the size of the pool which sometimes causes problems for our top swimmers. It means we are also missing out on holding larger, high profile competitions."

She added: "By working together we hope to come up with solutions for all our talented youngsters and put together a plan for the future."

Representatives from Darwen Swimming Club, Blackburn Centurions Swimming Club, The Amateur Swimming Association and Blackburn Borough Council's leisure services will attend the meeting in Blakeys, Northgate, Blackburn, on Tuesday, April 23 at 7.30pm.

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