Water Place lifeguards star in regional training video IT IS time to move over Pamela Anderson!

Bolton's answer to Baywatch is making it onto the small screen -- and The Water Place lifeguards are taking a starring role.

The swimming pool in the town centre was recently chosen to represent the North West on a National Pool Lifeguard training video.

The footage is set to be part of a full training package, produced in association with the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS).

A film crew from Quality Leisure Management filmed at The Water Place, highlighting its facilities and the methods used in lifeguarding.

Bolton lifeguards make waves in the video too, and are shown manning the fun splash pool, the leisure pool and the flumes. Swimming lessons and aquafit sessions are also put in the spotlight.

The lifeguards employed by Bolton Metro are all fully qualified with the RLSS and they regularly undergo staff training to keep their skills and knowledge up to date with new regulations.

Anybody wishing to enjoy the Baywatch lifestyle -- whether at a Bolton pool or a beach abroad -- can now sign up for an RLSS National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course.

The course -- which had a 100 per cent pass rate last time -- will take place at Deane Community Leisure Centre, starting in January 2002.

The NPLQ has an expiry date of two years, but there is regular on-going training available at the leisure centre, too.

Cllr John Byrne, executive member for culture, said: "The Water Place is a well-established local swimming venue that caters for all the family.

"Its popularity has always remained due to its flexibility to accommodate swimming lessons, aquafit sessions and a Lifestyles fitness suite -- while offering great fun in the leisure pool and on the flumes.

"Due to the complexity of the venue, the pool lifeguards are fully trained in all aspects of health and safety which all adds to making The Water Place a safe and fun-filled environment."

For more information, please contact reception at your local leisure centre of contact Deane Community Leisure Centre on 01204 334208. SAVING LIVES: Lifeguard instructor Annalisa Coop with regular members of Deane Leisure Centre BAYWATCH IN BOLTON: lifeguard Neil Hitchen at The Water Place