Local swim school celebrates a decade since transforming derelict pub into community hub

Local swim school, Puddle Ducks Greater Manchester is celebrating a decade on from transforming a derelict local pub into family-friendly community hub Aqua Nurture.

Once the Apethorn Pub, the building was transformed by owners of Puddle Ducks Greater Manchester, Gary and Suzanne Horton in 2016, into a local hub and community asset providing swimming lessons, a coffee shop, baby classes, a coding centre and more. 

The transformation came five years after Suzanne launched Puddle Ducks Greater Manchester which itself has grown to considerable success and popularity over the last 15 years, having taught thousands of children from across the local area the life-saving skill of swimming. 

Suzanne commented: “Ten years ago we took a huge leap of faith, turning a pub into a family swimming venue and what a wonderful journey it's been!  We’re so proud to have taught thousands of children to swim through our Puddle Ducks classes - inspiring a lifelong love of water and essential water safety skills”. 

Gary added: “We've also expanded to include Code Ninjas, where hundreds of children have learnt to code while making friends and we've provided Mencap and Tameside Little Gems with a warm, welcoming space for projects supporting families of children with SEND. None of this would be possible without our amazing team and the support of our loyal families - thank you for being part of our journey. Here's to the next ten years of memories, milestones and making a splash together!" 

The swim school takes an innovative approach to swimming, employing highly trained teachers who can identify a child’s level of ability and adapt lessons and activities accordingly. Puddle Ducks also has small class sizes and incorporates rhyme and movement based on extensive child development research. Through these techniques, they can nurture confidence and encourage natural swimming ability.