Iconic EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks is backing a campaign to encourage people to join Newtown Swimming Club.
Best known as playing 'Janine Butcher' in the long-running BBC soap drama, Charlie has shared a message on social media to get children, teens and adults back in the pool.
Wearing a Newtown Swimming Club shirt, the EastEnders star said: "Not only is it super fun but it also helps you with your confidence and your self-esteem and it's really great to be a part of an important club.
"If you're at home, don't be. Get in the pool and go to Newtown Swimming Club, make some friends, be part of the community and make a splash!"
Watch Charlie's message here:
The Maldwyn Leisure Centre-based Club said it was "fantastic" to get Charlie's support, who today began her first day of filming on the EastEnders set after reprising her role.
An 11-day campaign will be sharing messages from celebrities, swimmers, coaches and parents on social media to get more people to join the club after losing a few following the first and second lockdowns.
Charlie's video came about after best friend and Newtown Swimming Club team manager Kate Howells asked her to record a message for the campaign.
Kate said: "Charlie has seen the huge difference the club has made to my son. She visits here quite a lot and watches galas. She sees how important it is to him and what a difference the club has made for him.
"It's fantastic that we've got her support too."
Kate said the Club, which is run by 15 volunteers, offers so much for people aged seven and over.
"Absolutely come and try it," she said. "There's something for all abilities and there's coaches for different levels. For the more competitive swimmers we've got coaches that will push and try them specifically for competitions.
"But there are other coaches for people who just swim for one hour for fitness, fun and friendship. A lot of people start that way and get the bug for it.
"The open water swimming has been a huge part of our club since the pandemic and something that we are very proud of and will continue to offer for fun and competitively with our two qualified open water coaches"
Kate added: "People shouldn't worry that they're not fit or that they haven't done it in a while because the coaching is tailored to the individual depending on what they are capable of.
"There is something for everybody."
A free trial session is available by contacting the Club on Facebook or by email: newtownasc1@gmail.com.
Newtown Swimming Club meet on Tuesday evenings at Maldwyn Leisure Centre.
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