Active grandad Paul Staves has passed his lifeguard award at Ponds Forge...at the tender age of 64.
The Sheffield-based lifesaver, who has worked as a city pool attendant for 28 years, succeeded in passing the National Pool lifeguard Award diving down to depths of 20 feet, towing fellow lifeguards and completing timed swims, all whilst still in uniform, to pass the test.
This is the tenth time Paul has passed the course to allow him to supervise swimmers in Sheffield during his poolside career. The award now ensures he will be able to work until his retirement in October.
It is estimated the married father-of-three has supervised over 15 million swimmers in Sheffield in his role as a lifeguard at Sheaf Valley Baths and more recently Ponds Forge International Sports Centre.
Paul, from Parson Cross, said: "I have always loved swimming and believe in keeping fit and healthy. I love meeting people of all ages and know most of the swimmers at Ponds Forge by name.
"Throughout my 28 years I have only rescued three people from the pool and hope to keep it that way until I retire in October!"
Believing in the importance of fitness and safety, not only at the pool but at home, Paul ensured all his 10 grandchildren could swim and practice first aid.
He added: "Whereas other children were playing with toys I would take home the Resusci Annie and we would all practice.
"I have made sure all my grandchildren and children can swim - it's an essential life tool that no-one should be without."
Paul once even helped out a fish with his lifesaving skills.
He said: "I resuscitated a Koi Carp after I found it flapping in the garden rather than swimming happily in the pond. It was gasping for air on the grass, so I took it out and administered the kiss of life before releasing it back into the pond where it merrily swam off."
For more information about swimming lessons and sessions at Ponds Forge see www.ponds-forge.co.uk or call 0114 223 3400.
