The Long Swim

A Memory of Dagenham.

I remember this place well, we were taken here, whatever the weather, by school to have swimming lessons. The big event was to swim a mile, I did this and received a seasons pass to swim for free, which I was very proud of. My name then was Folley. When we went in a group of friends, the highlight was the hot drink of bovril and slice of bread and jam. Whenever there was a polio case about, I wasn't allowed to swim there, I used to plead with my Mum and Dad, but to no avail. I understand their wisdom now, but when your only thought was missing swimming, I couldn't see they were only protecting me. I often wonder, is it still there?