100-year-old dives back into life-long hobby

A day after turning 100, Mr Timms took his first swim in four years

A swimmer has returned to the pool to celebrate his 100th birthday.

Alfie Timms from Coventry once worked as a lifeguard at the city's swimming baths, but did not get the chance to take a dip in four years.

To mark his centennial birthday however, he took the plunge back into his life-long hobby at The Alan Higgs Centre on Wednesday.

He said that sport and his love of swimming are the secret to remaining active at 100 years old.

"I swam at the opening of Coventry Baths and was there for years, I met so many good friends," Mr Timms said.

Mr Timms says his love of swimming helps keep him active at 100 years old

The former lifeguard, who was a long-distance swimmer, halted his hobby after the sports centre on Fairfax Street closed.

This week, he was able to get back into the pool with the help of his friend Martyn Lomas.

"Over the last couple of years he's always said how much he missed his swimming and I could see the twinkle in his eye," Mr Lomas said.

"This is important to him, because this is probably the last time he'll have a swim.

"I'd like him to come again but it depends on how he feels, he'll know his limits after today."