On Wednesday 29th May 2024 the Ward Freman Community Pool Group were represented by Trustees Frazer and Joanne Willett at Reed’s Annual Parish Meeting. Following feedback from the villagers the Council changed the format of the meeting, so instead of a series of presentations from councillors and societies, this year with a complimentary glass of something in hand attendees were able to circulate, talk to the many organisations present and quiz members of the Reed Parish Council. The Reed Choir performed a couple of numbers and with the smell of wood fired pizzas coming from the converted horse box of BB Pizza, it was a very pleasant evening!

We did do some work as well whilst we were there, discussing the current plans for the Ward Freman Swimming Pool with residents, village visitors, Parish Councillors, a former District Councillor and the Head of Reed First School. Everyone was very supportive of our plans to repair and reopen the pool, with a dozen more people signing up to our Pool Supporters E-Newsletter.

Reed First School’s pupils have been affected by the pool’s closure as previously they spent two terms a year learning to swim at Ward Freman Pool. As a school already familiar with using a private coach to transport the children to Buntingford for swimming lessons they assumed it would be fairly easy, although taking more time out of the school day for travel, to use another swimming pool. However Headteacher Vicky Wittich reported that the next closest pools do not have the capacity to take additional school parties. So until further notice the pupils of Reed First School are unable to participate in learning this vital life saving skill.

We love talking to everyone about our plans to get the Ward Freman Pool open again as everyone is so supportive. If you would like to sign up to our e-Newsletter or know of an event or meeting where we could continue to engage with the community please get in touch here.