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Duke of Cambridge’s letter praises Swim England staff and members

The Duke of Cambridge has thanked Swim England’s staff and members for their work to support the swimming community during the coronavirus pandemic.

Prince William is the patron of the recognised national governing body for aquatics and has sent a letter to all the Swim England team and members at its affiliated clubs.

With pools closed since 20 March, Swim England has created a range of content, resources and training opportunities to help keep clubs and members engaged.

It has also been collaborating on detailed guidance for operators on how pools can be re-opened in a cost-effective manner, with less footfall due to social distancing, when they get the go-ahead from the Government.

Swim England’s affiliated clubs and volunteers have also been working hard to ensure their members are kept engaged during the outbreak.

In the letter, Prince William says: “I am writing to pass on my support and thanks to all the staff and members of Swim England.

“I am sure the last few weeks have been anxious and unsettling as schools and leisure facilities are closed and you face additional pressures trying to juggle your personal and professional lives.

“However, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all you are doing to support the swimming community through this time.

Best wishes

“This comes with my very best wishes for good health to you all and your families over the coming weeks.”

Jane Nickerson, Swim England chief executive, said: “I’m thrilled that the Duke of Cambridge has recognised the hard work of everyone connected with aquatics at this time.

“While the Swim England team is working hard to ensure a safe and viable return to pools, our dedicated members and volunteers across the country have also been faced with their own challenges.

“They have responded brilliantly and I’ve loved seeing the innovative ways they’ve helped to keep members fit and engaged with our sports, despite not being able to access facilities.

“It’s fantastic to see their efforts acknowledged in this way.”

Prince William has been patron of Swim England since January 2017, when he took over from Her Majesty The Queen.

In 2019, he recorded a special message to mark Swim England’s 150th anniversary.

The Duke of Cambridge, who has captained St Andrews University’s water polo team, also revealed the royals are a family of swimmers when presenting Eileen Fenton with an MBE for services to swimming.

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