The Zoe Teale Memorial Swimming Gala was held at Cheslyn Hay leisure centre on Saturday 30th October. Teams that competed were Chase, Cannock Phoenix, Walsall, Stafford Apex and Bilston. Zoe had swum for Chase, Bilston and Phoenix in the past.

36 of her old swim friends, now ex-swimmers, did three demonstration relay swims in her memory – at the start, in the middle and at the end of the main swimming gala. A further 100+ young swimmers took part in the official gala.

The gala was organised by Sue Dukes from Pheonix club, whilst Gavin – the manager from Cheslyn Hay leisure centre – provided the swimming pool free of charge. The event was held with the help of many officials, timekeepers and coaches who all gave their time free to ensure that the event went smoothly. The event was watched by over 150 spectators

Chase won the Zoe Teale Memorial Trophy and South Staffs MP Gavin Williamson presented the trophy to Matt Brackmanski and Alice Holmes from Chase SC. Gavin spent the whole evening at Cheslyn Hay leisure centre, collecting donations and helping with the tombola (right).

£715.36 was raised on the evening from entrance fees, tombola and collection tins, with all proceeds going to the Zoe Teale Memorial Fund at CRY. The funds will be used to provide free ECG screenings for young adults ages 14 – 35.

Gavin Williamson MP has joined the Cardiac Risk in the Young All Party Parliamentary Group to help CRY’s campaign for a national screening programme. He has also fully supported our family. ECGs are able to detect hidden heart conditions, and once diagnosed these conditions can be treated or managed.

Pete Teale