Rick Kiddle backs campaign to save High Wycombe pool (From Bucks Free Press)

Rick Kiddle backs campaign to save High Wycombe pool

5:40pm Thursday 19th March 2009 in Search By Alex Hayes

A FORMER triathlon champion says High Wycombe could become a “mecca” for the sport if the Holywell Mead pool can be kept open.

Rick Kiddle, a former British triathlon champion, is the vice chairman on the newly created board set up to save the open air pool in The Rye, High Wycombe.

Last month Wycombe District Council voted to close the pool after 52 years, as part of a cost cutting exercise.

The 46-year-old, who now coaches budding triathletes, used to come to the pool with his family more than 30 years ago.

He said: “I have no political bias, I just want to help save something I think is really unique. This pool is loved by thousands of people around High Wycombe.

“We feel it has been mismanaged and not marketed enough. If it was to be opened longer, and things like schools encouraged to come down and make use of it, it could make money.”

He added: “Last year I set up a triathlon club, but one important aspect is swimming in the outdoors, which many people are afraid of. Holywell Mead would be a big draw for people who now have to leave the area to train.

“With the clubs we have here and the terrain High Wycombe would become a mecca for triathletes.”

Members of the board are drawing up a business plan to try and save the pool, and are set to apply for charitable status for a new management committee to help run the pool.

Last week a letter was sent to WDC asking whether they would consider a business plan to run the facility, although the council has not yet responded.

Mr Kiddle, who lives near the pool in Keep Hill Drive, continued: “What we are concerned about is the site will be left to fall into disrepair. That will cost the council more than maintaining it.

“We are putting a business plan together, but it is no use if the council says it will not consider it.

“Last summer I was coaching a group of my sons friends and took them to the pool for a treat, but I was shocked to find most couldn't swim, so over the summer I taught them.

“That's the kind of childhood memories which will be lost if the pool can't be kept open for the whole community.”