The History of Holywell Swimming Club from 1970 to the Present Day
Based at Holywell Leisure Centre since 1970, Holywell Amateur Swimming Club (ASC) is an inclusive swimming club with 80 to 100 members. Our club colours are red, black, and white.
Over the years, Holywell ASC has grown to become one of the top swimming clubs in North Wales. Affiliated with Swim Wales, the club welcomes swimmers of all ages, from 6 to 60, whether they are beginners or aspiring to compete at the highest level. We accept members from across North Wales and the North West of England.
A public meeting was held on Friday, 6th February 1970, in the council chamber in Holywell, chaired by Councillor David P. Schwarz, J.P., and Mr J.P. Orkney, M.INST. B.M. A.R.S.H. D.P.A., Pool Manager. They proposed the formation of a swimming club to promote competitive lifesaving and survival swimming in the district.
The Chairman of H.U.D.C., Dr M. Parry, generously donated £38 from the proceeds of the Chairman's Ball to help establish the club’s funds on a stable footing. Mr R. Woodruff, F.C.C.S., Secretary of the Committee, offered clerical assistance, while Mr Arlyn G. Jones, F.C.C.S., Treasurer, also provided financial support.
The club was initially named "Holywell Amateur Swimming Club", and a committee was formed, including a Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Honorary Treasurer, Honorary Secretary, Awards Secretary, and twelve committee members. This first management team was designated as the committee of the "Holywell Aquatic Sports Club."
During the meeting, several key points were agreed upon, including a format for future meetings, a draft constitution acceptable to the committee, and recommendations for affiliations with organisations such as the North Wales Swimming Association, W.A.S.A., and the Royal Life Saving Society.
At the subsequent meeting, the club’s name was officially confirmed as Holywell Amateur Swimming Club (Clwb Nofio Amatur Treffynnon). Discussions were held regarding recruitment and how to encourage new members to join. Annual membership fees were set at 5 shillings for seniors and 2 shillings and 6 pence for juniors.
The club's first swimming session took place on a Friday evening from 6pm to 9pm, divided into three one-hour periods, catering to different age groups and abilities. From that session onwards, the club embarked on its journey, growing and evolving into the present day.