Quick-thinking staff saved my daughter

Photo: Picture: VINCENT BROWN

THE team at Crompton pool (back row, from the left) Natalie Downs, Mike Elson, John Gillam, Tony Alberti. Front: Paul Roberts and Joanne Nield, with (inset) Victoria Slater.

Staff at Crompton pool have been nominated for a Pride in Oldham nomination for repeatedly coming to the aid of an 11-year-old girl.

The consequences could have been devastating as epilepsy sufferer Victoria Slater suffered a seizure during an advanced lesson at the pool in Shaw.

But the quick-thinking of lifeguard Paul Roberts and speedy actions of staff saw the Crompton House pupil pulled to safety as her mother watched from the sidelines.

It has since happened twice more, with different members of staff coming to the young swimmer’s aid.

Now, grateful mum Lisa Slater has put the team forward for the award.

She said: “As the public, we recognise the wonderful work the police and health-care staff do, but we do forget that every day there are lifeguards watching our loved ones enjoy a swim. The staff give 110 per cent to all aspects of their job.

“I can’t overestimate just how much they have done to support her to try and get her through it. They continue to do so even though she suffers regular seizures and they support so many other people. They have been very professional, quick, calm and extremely caring to my daughter and myself.”

The family has discovered that the seizures happen only after 4pm, so the team are now trying to organise an earlier time slot for her to train for her swimming honours.

Joanne Nield, duty manager of the team of eight staff, was thrilled with the news.

She said: “It is just wonderful. It’s nice someone has taken the time to comment and give positive feedback on something we do day to day.

“We have a great team here and numerous staff have dealt with Victoria over the years.

“It’s great someone has recognised it — just superb.”