Northwich Centurions
History
Over 130 Years of Swimming Heritage
From Victorian Northwich to our modern home at Northwich Memorial Court, generations of swimmers, coaches and volunteers have shaped the proud history of Northwich Amateur Swimming Club and today's Northwich Centurions.
The Beginning
In 1887 the town of Northwich was presented with an indoor swimming facility by Sir John Verdin. Located within Verdin Park, the 20-yard pool opened in 1888 and became home to the Verdin Swimming Club.
Verdin Swimming Club went on to become a founder member of the Northern Counties Amateur Swimming Association when it was established in April 1889.
Due to the pool's limited length, national, county and district qualifying events over 50 and 100 yards were held over measured distances in the local river.
Swimming on the River
In June 1897 the club organised a river gala that attracted huge crowds. The Northwich Guardian reported first-class swimming and diving displays by club members, showing the popularity of the sport within the town.
A New Home
The original Verdin Swimming Club closed in 1911 due to severe subsidence caused by local salt workings. Plans were developed for new baths on Victoria Road, which took three years to build.
The facility officially opened with a gala on 28 August 1915.
Victoria Road Baths, Northwich - Early 1900s
Northwich Swimming Club is Founded
On 22 September 1915 a meeting was held at the Council House for the purpose of forming Northwich Swimming Club.
The first club championships followed shortly afterwards and featured an exhibition swim by World and Olympic Champion Henry Taylor.
A Competitive Future
The club became a founder member of both the Northwest Speedo League and the Deva League, helping establish competitions that remain important to swimmer development across the region.
The Moss Farm Era
Following the closure of Victoria Road Baths, the club moved into a brand-new six-lane, 25-metre swimming pool at Moss Farm, Winnington.
Northwich Centurions is Born
In September 2015 the club moved to Northwich Memorial Court and rebranded as Northwich Centurions Swimming Club & Lifesaving.
The move provided the club with modern facilities including two pools, fitness facilities and improved opportunities for swimmers and lifesavers.
Today, Northwich Centurions continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of coaches, teachers, officials and volunteers who freely give their time so that future generations can learn, compete and enjoy aquatic sport.