ONE of Bolton’s oldest sports clubs is in danger of folding because of declining membership and a shortage of volunteer helpers.

Bolton Bridgeman Amateur Swimming Club was formed in 1901 and has taught thousands of youngsters to swim.

The club, based at Turton Pool, gives expert tuition in synchronised swimming — the only pool in the district to offer such a facility.

Yet the 109-year-old club, which has had several bases since its origins at the old Bridgeman Street Baths, faces could close if it fails to attract new members.

Cath Hesketh, who has been connected with the club for 30 years, and fellow officials are trying to drum up support.

“Ten years ago, when we were based at the Water Place, we had more than 250 members,” she said. “But since the Water Place closed in 2002 membership has been in decline and we now only have about 25 to 30 people involved.

“It would be a shame to let the club fold after more than 100 years serving the community, just for the want of a few youngsters who want to learn to swim and a few helpers.

“But it’s become a hand-to-mouth existence and we’ve been near to closing on a number of occasions. Now we are having to take things one month at a time.”

Mrs Hesketh, who has just completed a two-year presidency of the Lancashire Water Polo and Swimming Association, is particularly disappointed at the lack of interest in synchronised swimming, which is her speciality. When the popular Olympic event was launched in Britain in the mid-1960s, Bolton Bridgeman was one of the first clubs to form a team, and when the Water Place was opened in 1988, members gave a display in front of the Queen.

However, a recent Sunday afternoon taster session attracted only one newcomer — a boy — despite widespread publicity in schools.

Mrs Hesketh said: “I could have cried. We had paid out £50 for the pool and two lifeguards and this young boy came along. We still gave him his session but the lack of response was bitterly disappointing.”

She is planning another taster session later this year. Mrs Hesketh, who is a national judge and scorer as well as qualified coach, relies on a small band of volunteers, including her daughter, Emma, Gillian Blackburn and the club’s longest-serving member Angela Jardine.

“It’s difficult to keep going when there’s only three or four of you,” she said. “We teach children to swim from the age of five upwards and we’re hanging on for the good of those children. But there could soon come a time when it’s no longer viable.”

The club meets on Fridays, 8.30pm to 9.30pm. For details, ring Mrs Hesketh on 01204 531839.