A GALASHIELS man has hailed staff at the town’s swimming pool after they saved his life.

Earlier this month, Allan Morrison was enjoying a swim at the Livingstone Place pool when he became unwell in the water.

And he says if it wasn’t for quick-thinking lifeguard Stephen Kelleher during the open-swimming session on May 3, he could have died.

This week, Mr Morrison told the Border Telegraph how he wanted to publicly thank the lifeguards at the pool.

He stated: “I was swimming in Gala Pool when I became unwell.
“I sank and started to swallow lots of water. 

“The lifeguard, Stephen, saw my predicament and jumped in and walked me to the side.

“I’m in no doubt that if it hadn’t been for Stephen’s quick actions I would have been in real trouble.

“Stephen and the manager, Mark, helped me up the steps and into a chair, Louis gave me some towels and helped me to calm down.

“They sent for an ambulance and I was taken to Borders General Hospital.”

Mr Morrison spent five days in hospital for treatment and tests.
And continues to receive medication for the condition that caused his near-death experience.

He added: “I wish to say that I was treated very well by the ambulance men, the doctors, the nurses and the tea ladies and men.

“I am very grateful to the Galashiels Swimming Pool staff and feel assured that all swimmers are in safe hands always.”

And Stephen’s actions haven’t gone unnoticed by bosses at Live Borders – the leisure organisation which runs all of the swimming pools in the Borders.

Scott Weir, the charity’s area manager, said: “It’s great to hear that Allan has been able to make a full recovery.

“Our staff are highly trained and it is reassuring to see them act so professionally and ensure the highest standards were met in Allan’s care.

“I’d like to say well done to all the staff that were involved and we hope to see Allan back in the pool soon.”