A local woman who spent more than 60 years afraid of deep water has praised a swim coach at Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre for helping her finally learn to swim with confidence.
Pauline Harrington, 72, says she had avoided deep water ever since she was pushed into the deep end of a pool by another child when she was 11. The incident left her terrified of submerging her face – and she believed she would never properly enjoy swimming again.
But after seeing a friend progress from barely swimming to completing a Swimathon, Pauline decided to give lessons another try. She was introduced to Westminster Lodge swim coach Hollie Burke, who she says transformed her experience from the very first session.
Pauline said: “All I wanted was to be able to jump in the pool and swim to surprise my family on our upcoming holiday. From day one, Hollie made me feel completely comfortable and never once let me feel discouraged.
“Watching her in the water with her arms out to reassure me she was there brought a tear to my eye. Her compassion and dedication meant everything.”
The centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with St Albans City and District Council, provided Pauline with weekly coaching designed to rebuild her confidence gradually and safely.
Pauline has since returned from her family holiday, where she surprised her relatives by confidently jumping into the pool alongside them.
“My family were gobsmacked,” she said. “They thought I was very cheeky for having taken secret swimming lessons.”
She also snorkelled for the first time during the trip and has since discovered additional physical benefits, explaining that swimming has helped to ease arthritis-related back pain.
Pauline added: “I would encourage anyone who has a fear of water or has never learnt to swim to get in touch. I’ve completely conquered my fear of jumping into deep water - although it took until my very last lesson to do it. Hollie will make it happen for you.”
Hollie Burke, Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre swim coach, said: “Pauline came to us feeling nervous, so we took everything one step at a time. Seeing her confidence grow each week - and knowing she can now enjoy the water with her family - has been incredibly rewarding.”
Steve Cox, Area Contract Manager at Everyone Active, said: “Pauline’s journey is a fantastic reminder that it is never too late to learn a new skill or overcome a long-held fear. We’re incredibly proud of Hollie for providing such patient, compassionate coaching, and proud of Pauline for taking such a brave step. Her determination shows exactly what can be achieved with the right support, and it reflects the welcoming, inclusive environment the team at Westminster Lodge strive to provide every day.”