Maureen took up swimming at the age of 60 as a way to keep fit Picture: The Malthouse

Maureen takes a swim down memory lane after returning to Gillingham pool at 96

Tait ap EllisOctober 9, 20250 Comment0

A WOMAN in Gillingham who made headlines with a fundraising swim 20 years ago has returned to the very same pool – this time at age 96.

Maureen, a resident at The Malthouse care home, swam 71 lengths of the RiversMeet Leisure Centre when she was 76 in 2005 to raise money to help refurbish the Vicarage Schoolroom.

When interviewed at the time, Maureen spoke about her lifelong love of swimming and how she had taken up the sport again at 60 to keep fit.

Now, 20 years later, Maureen visited the pool thanks to the team at The Malthouse who arranged a special visit through their wellbeing programme, which helps residents reconnect with past hobbies.

Leah Tealey, one of the home’s activities coordinators, said: “Maureen’s story inspired everyone here. She talked so fondly about her swimming days that we wanted to make it possible for her to relive that experience.

A clipping from the Western Gazette documenting Maureen’s accomplishment Picture: The Malthouse

“The ‘Swimming for Memories’ sessions are all about helping residents reconnect with their past hobbies.”

Before retiring, Maureen spent many years as a teacher and has always believed in the benefits of swimming for both body and mind.

In her 2005 interview, she described it as “a great way for the elderly to stay in shape” – a belief she clearly still holds true.

Maureen visited the pool thanks to The Maltings Picture: The Malthouse

Specialising in residential support for the elderly, The Malthouse is a traditional building with a quirky and charming interior set in beautiful grounds with a courtyard and a private rear garden.

Life at The Malthouse for residents is made as fun, fulfilling and comfortable as possible.

The home is built on reputation from inside and outside the local community – the commitment and strength from a long-standing team of dedicated staff hugely contributes to the home’s success.