Schoolchildren in Falmouth are no longer taking swimming lessons as the costs of the Ships & Castles closure are felt.

Speaking at the Ships & Castles community meeting last night (10th), headteachers from various Falmouth schools said availability, costs of pools, and travelling, have resulted in children being unable have swimming lessons.

In fact, Hannah Stevens from St Francis said nobody at her school is currently swimming, "it is a tragedy," she said.

Around 150 local people and councillors from Falmouth, Penryn, Mylor, Wendron, and surrounding areas came together last night to discuss the future of swimming, leisure, and sports provision for the towns.

Mrs Stevens said conversations had taken place with Cornwall Council to appoint a person to find a solution. However, three months down the line, nobody has been appointed.

Mrs Stevens added:

"As primary school teachers, we are jack of all trades. We will have a go at swimming teaching, but we are not qualified swimming instructors. One of the things Ships & Castles provided was swimming instructors. We are really feeling it from the school perspective."

"Children must be able to swim," she said.

The alternative provisions were also discussed for the children including hotels.

Gemma Adams, Pendennis Leisure CIC MD said:

"None of those hotels are lifeguarded. Ships & Castles was always lifeguarded. A lot of people don't feel confident taking their children if they don't have the skills themselves."

"One final thought. I had a message from a parent today enquiring about their four-year-old coming to swim in my classes. I usually ask about their ability and their confidence. Her words were that she likes a bath, but she's never been in a swimming pool."