GREAT Yarmouth Swimming Club’s Pat Hollis has been awarded a prestigious ASA Aquaforce Volunteers award.

She received the award from Sheila MacKenzie, president of the ASA East Region at a ceremony held recently in Chippenham.

Pat’s family have always been involved in swimming.

Pat herself was an excellent swimmer, winning the NCASA Championship open backstroke at the age of 11.

Elected as girls’ swimming captain 53 years ago, Pat became a member of the club committee, on which she has served continuously ever since.

She has fulfilled almost every role available: treasurer, secretary, admissions and membership secretary, press officer, waiting list secretary, minutes secretary and chairperson.

Today Pat is the facilities officer and co-ordinator to the disabled swimming club.

She was also president of Norfolk County ASA in 1985.

In 1973, Pat was encouraged to become a swimming teacher by her sister who was then coaching at the club.

Today, 37 years later, she still has a teaching commitment to the club.

Over the years Pat has played a very pro-active role in many areas for the benefit of the club and swimmers.

Her love of swimming has been passed on to hundreds of children whom she has taught and, above all, it is thanks to her efforts that Great Yarmouth Swimming Club enjoys the facilities it has today.

Also recognised in the Aquaforce awards and presented with 25-year service pins were Cynthia Blackwell – who until her recent retirement held the position of club treasurer for over 30 years – and Roger Caton.

He has served the club for over 35 years in many roles, including chief coach and chairman.

Roger continues to be a very active committee member and teacher.

n You can find out more about the club by visiting www.gysc.org.uk