Swim England is continuing to follow Government and Public Health England guidance over staging events in the light of the coronavirus outbreak – but will review the situation at a meeting next week. A Swim England spokesperson said: “We have been receiving a number of calls regarding events taking place and we understand the concerns of our members and clubs. “The current advice is that there is still no requirement to cancel sporting events, although we appreciate a number of other national governing bodies have taken the decision to so. We are continuing to evaluate what is an ongoing situation and we will be meeting with our colleagues at British Swimming on Monday to undertake another risk assessment for forthcoming events before deciding the next course of action.”

Among the events to be considered at Monday’s meeting are the FINA Diving World Series, which is scheduled to take place at the London Aquatics Centre between 27-29 March, and the British Masters Championships at Sheffield’s Ponds Forge due to be held from 24-26 April.

“Cancelling events is not a decision we would take lightly but the health and wellbeing of our athletes, volunteers and spectators will be at the forefront of our discussions,” added the spokesperson. “In the meantime, we would encourage everyone taking part in all our aquatic sports over the weekend to enjoy the competitions but be mindful of the advice from the Government and Public Health England. The guidance we have received is that water and the chlorine within swimming pools will help to kill the virus. It’s important, however, to ensure that everyone visiting pools follows the latest hygiene advice to help reduce the risk of infection."

“Competitors should shower before and after entering the water, while spectators and volunteers should regularly wash their hands for 20 seconds using soap and water or a sanitiser gel.  Most importantly, if you feel unwell, please do not attend events or training and seek appropriate medical advice.”

Travel Advice for Clubs

Meanwhile, Swim England and British Swimming are advising clubs to consider Government guidance regarding any planned overseas travel.

The Swim England spokesperson said: “The Government has recently advised schools and colleges to cancel overseas trips for children under 18 until further notice.  Swim England and British Swimming are advising clubs to consider this guidance in relation to any overseas trips that they may have planned. We also suggest clubs follow the advice regarding travel to domestic events.  We will continue to review guidance from Government and issue further information accordingly.”

Swim England will continue to keep everyone updated on its latest position regarding the coronavirus outbreak.