In the seaside town of Blackpool, a popular coastal destination in northwest England known for its iconic tower, vibrant promenade, and rich entertainment history, a legacy of resilience and compassion continues to thrive, led by one remarkable woman: Lynda. Her story is one of transformative community service and a commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. At the heart of her life’s work is the Blackpool Polar Bears, a pioneering multi-disability swimming club that has benefitted hundreds of swimmers since its founding in 2000.
A Family’s Strength and Sacrifice
Lynda’s journey began with her brother, Paul, who was born with Down’s Syndrome in 1964. Paul entered the world through a menopausal birth, the youngest of three siblings. Their mother’s passing when Paul was just 10 years old reshaped the family’s life. At 17, Lynda stepped into a caregiving role, balancing work and her responsibilities at home while their father continued as the primary breadwinner. This early caregiving experience and the family's resilience in adversity set the stage for Lynda's future work.
For a brief period, family cooperation helped sustain them. Lynda worked at WHSmith, rearranging her hours to support Paul during school breaks, while their sister shared caregiving duties. However, this arrangement unravelled when the sister’s husband objected to their children being associated with “someone like Paul.” Devastated but determined, Lynda’s father resolved, “So be it,” as the sister distanced herself from the family.
Lynda’s workplace became a haven. Her compassionate boss allowed her to bring Paul to work, where he delighted in unpacking books in the stockroom and earning a football annual as payment. It was a small but meaningful gesture, showing that kindness and inclusion could transform lives. Lynda often reflects on how many compassionate people surrounded her during these challenging times—individuals whose selflessness and support motivated her to keep going. Their kindness, along with the support of her workplace, inspired Lynda to pay it forward, shaping her belief in the power of community and the importance of helping others.
A New Chapter of Care and Loss
A few years later, Lynda married and started her own family, but she remained close to her father and Paul. Tragedy struck again when her father passed away suddenly from a heart attack, leaving Paul in Lynda’s care. Now managing her grief, two young children, and the responsibilities of caregiving, Lynda faced an overwhelming legal battle to reinstate Paul’s benefits—which had ceased due to his change of address. It was nine months of relentless advocacy, made possible with the support of friends and a local councillor who shared Lynda’s understanding of disability challenges.
Disability challenges often go beyond physical or intellectual limitations. Families frequently face bureaucratic hurdles, societal stigma, and limited access to specialised resources. These barriers can overwhelm everyday tasks, like finding appropriate education, healthcare, or recreational opportunities. For Lynda, these challenges highlighted the importance of community support and systemic change, motivating her to create a space where individuals with disabilities could thrive.
The Birth of the Blackpool Polar Bears
Swimming had always been a beloved family activity. Lynda’s children took lessons while Paul watched enthusiastically from the sidelines. However, when Paul expressed a desire to swim, they discovered that no local facilities could accommodate disabled individuals. Undeterred, Lynda and a fellow volunteer at the Blackpool Bears—a dry sports club—envisioned a solution.
In January 2000, they rented a pool for an hour each week, inviting Paul and four friends to join. The Blackpool Polar Bears was born, named for the resilience of its namesake animal. Word spread quickly, and by the year’s end, the group had grown enough to require two hours of pool time. Lynda secured a £250 grant and the support of local councillors to keep the project afloat, all while juggling prolific fundraising efforts.
From Lessons to Competitive Triumphs
Under Lynda’s leadership, the Polar Bears evolved beyond swimming lessons to embrace a long-term vision. They became affiliated with the Special Olympics for intellectual disabilities, NASCH for physical disabilities, and the Paralympics for combined categories. This triple affiliation reflected Lynda’s belief that the club should welcome all disabilities. In 2005 the Blackpool Polar Bears took part in its first Special Olympics National Games where 5 swimmers took part - and Lynda's brother Paul was one of these. The team did very well and came back with 3 Gold, 5 Silver and 3 Bronze medals. Lynda was so very proud of what Paul had achieved as he got a treble, he won a Gold, a Silver and Bronze.
The Polar Bears soon gained recognition as a significant presence in competitive swimming. Members trained diligently and participated in events at local, regional, and international levels. In 2019, swimmer Erin earned a place on the Great Britain team for the Special Olympics, followed by Charlotte in 2023. These milestones highlighted the club’s dedication to fostering talent while promoting inclusivity and excellence, and they are a source of pride for the entire community.
Overcoming Personal Loss
The COVID-19 pandemic brought another heartbreak when Paul passed away at 54. He had lived a whole life enjoying music, dressing up, and singing alongside famous performers. Lynda’s unwavering care had given him the best life possible, a fact she holds onto with pride and love. Paul’s spirit remains a guiding force in Lynda’s work, symbolised by a keyring Emma gave her with Paul’s image, always present at special events.
Many individuals with learning and other disabilities share Paul’s love for life, connection, and joy as part of a community. Their vibrant personalities and enthusiasm for the world around them often inspire those who know them. Lynda’s experience with Paul and others has deepened her understanding of the importance of creating spaces where everyone can feel valued, supported, and included. This belief continues to drive her work with the Polar Bears, ensuring that joy and opportunity are accessible to all.
A Family Legacy of Giving Back
Lynda’s children, Emma and Andrew, grew up inspired by their mother’s example. Emma became a Level 2 swimming teacher, assistant head coach, and later the GB head coach for Special Olympics swimming. Andrew, a Level 1 swimming teacher, supports the club’s technical operations, managing event logistics and athlete timing data.
The Polar Bears now boasts 10 qualified volunteer swimming teachers and 20 pool helpers, all trained through funding secured by the charity. These volunteers come from all walks of life and backgrounds, reflecting the incredible diversity that community volunteering can bring. Their collective effort has enabled the club to support members aged five to 80, offering lessons and a vital social network. Blackpool Polar Bears remains open to help from many areas, welcoming anyone with a shared passion for inclusivity and making a difference.
The Future of Blackpool Polar Bears
As the club celebrates its 25th anniversary - 2000 to 2025, Lynda remains steadfast in her commitment to its growth. Her vision is clear: supporting individuals with disabilities, fostering confidence, and creating opportunities. The Polar Bears’ annual gala, a hallmark of Lynda’s dedication, showcases their achievements and unites the community in celebration.
Reflecting on her journey, Lynda says, “Everybody is good at something; you just have to find what it is.” Her philosophy has shaped the Polar Bears and inspired a legacy of compassion and inclusivity that will endure for generations.
If Lynda’s story or the work of Blackpool Polar Bears has touched you, there are many ways to get involved. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, donating, partnering with the club, or discussing how these themes resonate with your experiences, the Polar Bears would love to hear from you. Together, we can continue building a community of support and opportunity for individuals with disabilities. Reach out today and make a difference.
