YOUNG swimmers in Helensburgh have received a big funding boost as their club celebrates its 130th year.

Housebuilder Bellway Homes, which is developing the Alder Gate site off Cardross Road, has donated £1,600 to Helensburgh Amateur Swimming Club (HASC) after enlisting the help of contractors and suppliers.

A cheque was handed over last week, and afterwards, Sue Macartney, HASC kit convenor, said: “Bellway donated money to us earlier this summer for an underwater camera so it is amazing that they have once again come to our aid and enlisted the help of others in their network.

“They told me they had a cheque for us but I was absolutely astonished when they said how much it was for – it’s just awesome and a big step forward for our fund-raising campaign.

“In total we need to raise £30,000 for the timing system which will enable us to operate at a more competitive level and encourage the next generation of swimmers.”

The club plan to also use some of the donation money to buy hoodies for the young swimmers to celebrate the club’s 130th anniversary this year.

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Based at Helensburgh Swimming Pool and run by parent volunteers, HASC currently has more than 50 members ranging in age from 7 to 19-years-old, who are enjoying the return to the pool following the easing of restrictions in April.

Andy Borland, construction director for Bellway Homes Ltd (Scotland West), said: “HASC do a fantastic job keeping local young people healthy, fit and motivated and we are delighted to be able to help them out in their special year.

“Scotland is producing some of the best swimmers in the world at the moment and who knows we may see the next Duncan Scott coming out of the club.

“I would like to say a big thank you to all the people who helped raise the £1,600 including Skeiran Rendering Ltd, JA Ceramics, Novora, KCS Roofing, Jim McLean Decorators, Daylight Industrial, H&M Cleaning, MES LTD, Jordan Electrics, GSC Timer and Roundel.”

Alder Gate will feature 107 three, four and five bedroom homes when complete, located at the Sawmill Field site next to Hermitage Academy.