Anne Makes A Splash As Unsung Heroes Finalist

By ringwoodnews | Wednesday, December 21, 2011, 07:40

A swimming coach for New Forest District Council has become one of the three finalists chosen from hundreds of nominees, for a prestigious BBC Unsung Hero Award.

Ringwood swimming coach Anne Nugent nominated as a BBC Unsung Hero. (photo courtesy New Forest District Council)

Anne Nugent has become a bit of a swimming legend at Ringwood Health and Leisure Centre where she is also director of coaching for the Seals Swimming Club and is now teaching second generation children brought to her by parents she once taught at the Swim Academy.

Anne's swimming success began around 30 years ago when her own children were learning to swim, and Anne hid the fact that she was frightened of water and could barely swim. Not wanting to feel like a fish out of water, Anne took lessons herself with the children at Ringwood swimming pool - and that's where it began.

Earlier this year, Anne was treated for breast cancer and is now in remission, but kept up her contact and links to the club members and team throughout. It has been her inspirational outlook and devotion to helping others has seen Anne become one of the three finalists in the BBC South region.

Anne's enthusiasm is infectious and her dedication is second to none. She is poolside most days of the week, even on Sunday mornings, and the Seals are put through their training paces on Tuesday and Friday evenings. In addition, she travels to swimming galas and works at home planning sessions.

Anne also hopes to carry the Olympic Flame through the New Forest next year. She is in the running and is awaiting to here if she has been selected.

New Forest District Council portfolio holder for Health and Leisure Cllr Di Brooks said: "Anne Nugent is a truly remarkable and inspirational person who has dedicated so much of her life to helping others gain confidence in the water through swimming.

"We are privileged to have her as an ambassador for the council and for the district - I'm sure everybody joins me in wishing her all the best for the future, whether it's carrying the Olympic torch or continuing to coach youngsters at the poolside. She really is our unsung hero."