Hearts sink as water polo club forced out

Bexley Water Polo Club was formed in 1969 at Lamorbey Baths, Hurst Road, Sidcup, with a membership of around 40 boys aged between 12 and 14.

The club flourished and in its heyday was regularly running three senior teams, an under-18 team and an under-16 team.

It was a frequent winner of both Kent and London league championships.

In 2000, following council initiatives to redevelop the Lamorbey Baths, the club moved to the old Crook Log pool in Brampton Road, Bexleyheath, where it continued for five years.

Following the closure of Crook Log last year, the club tried to continue its matches at the new pool across the street but, at 6ft deep, it was found to be too shallow.

In fact, the low depth of the water led to two visiting teams refusing to play and others submitted complaints to the London Water Polo League.

With no other alternatives in the borough, the club has now moved to the White Oak Leisure Centre, Hilda May Avenue, Swanley.

Founder member George Murrell said: "It has been a struggle but for 37 years Bexley Water Polo Club has managed to keep the sport alive in the borough.

"Bexley Water Polo Club has now had to move out. With all the current emphasis on the sport development it is sad water polo in Bexley now exists in name only."

Club secretary Fred Househole said: "I think it is a great shame. We would like to know the council's plans for the Lamorbey Baths and be involved in any consultation but I am not holding my breath."

A spokesman for the council said: "I was sorry to learn Bexley Water Polo Club decided to move without discussion with either Parkwood Leisure or the council.

"The council and Parkwood Leisure would be happy to discuss the club's concerns with them, to see if we can do anything to enable them to continue to use Crook Log."

l If you can play water polo and are interested in joining the team, call Fred Holehouse on 01689 839 488. Fees are around £15 per month.