The Northumberland and Durham Festival of Aquatics made a joyful splash last month, welcoming swimmers, families, and volunteers from across Northumberland and Durham for a morning packed with excitement, energy, and community spirit. Hosted by Northumberland and Durham and supported by Swim England North East, the event truly lived up to its promise of “splashing into fun,” offering an engaging showcase of the many ways to enjoy the water.
The day began with a smooth registration process, as anticipation built around the poolside. Participants were assigned to three different groups. Then, it was not long before the action got underway with a stunning performance from Gateshead Artistic Swimming. Their graceful routines and synchronised movements had spectators and participants captivated by their performances, setting the tone for a festival full of inspiration.
A spectacular diving display followed, courtesy of the Sunderland City Diving Team, who impressed with their confident technique and aerial finesse. Adele Graham-King gave great insights to what goes on within Diving, and mentioned how the participants interested in learning how to dive can attend a taster session at the Sunderland Aquatics Centre which feeds into the Learn to Dive programme.
Adding another splash of excitement, Dave from City of Sunderland Water Polo, along with Northumbria University students, led a high-energy demonstration of water polo techniques. The fast-paced action, teamwork, and lively commentary created a buzz throughout the venue, sparking curiosity and smiles from all around the Aquatic Centre.
Throughout the day, there was no shortage of enthusiasm. Participants were encouraged to explore each of the aquatic disciplines both in and out of the water, and they responded with eagerness and joy. From curious newcomers to confident swimmers, there were happy faces everywhere, whether enjoying the displays, giving a new sport a try, or simply sharing the fun with friends and family.
Smiles continued beyond the demonstrations as the dry-land activities brought extra fun and learning to the experience. Each of the dry-land activities serve purpose on what each of the aquatic disciplines do before they get in the water such as learning a new routine or skill, or explaining why they do, what they do. This allowed creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere both in and out of the pool.
As the day progressed, the pool welcomed the three groups of participants, all keen to dive in and get involved. Whether twirling like artistic swimmers, trying out diving drills, or shooting a water polo ball for the first time, the joy was unmistakable. The festival didn’t just showcase the sports, it celebrated the people behind them.
From start to finish, the Festival of Aquatics was a celebration of community, movement, and the shared love of the water. The event highlighted not only the skills of local clubs and athletes, but also the welcoming spirit of aquatics in Northumberland and Durham.
A big thanks to Tesco Sunderland for supplying food for the participants and volunteers at the event, to the amazing club coaches and volunteers who gave up their Saturday morning to help the event run and also to Everyone Active and Sunderland City Council.
If anyone has been inspired by the festival to try one of the featured aquatic sports, please have a look on our website for more information on how to get involved, we have fantastic Artistic Swimming, Water Polo and Diving clubs across the North East Region.
