The chairman of the Farleigh (And District) Swimming Club which is a popular local wild water swimming place and attracts people from all over including Frome has died.

Rob Fryer was the Frome Nub News guide when we went to see the club and talked passionately about river swimming and why it mattered.

The Club has applied for clean bathing status, which it hopes will ensure that Wessex Water keeps a close watch on any pollution problems.

Founded in 1933, the Swimming Club is believed to be the oldest river swimming club in the country and is just a short drive from Frome in the village of Farleigh Hungerford. The swimming which is by membership only, has now closed for the season.

Mr Fryer not only advocated for the club but he was also very hands-on, with weir repairs, new ladders and steps, designing the logo, signage and collecting subs. The club posted : " His spirit lives on in everything Farleigh and Wild Swimming."

They say they will run a short memorial to him this coming weekend - lowering the club flag in his honour, lay flowers and perhaps say a few words. This will take place on Sunday 8th October at 3 pm at the club.

Robert A Fryer 13/03/39 - 25/09/2023

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