Imagine it’s 1904, in the Edwardian era. King Edward VII, the son of Queen Victoria, is on the throne, reports Edyta Cummings.

People often think it was a time full of charm — long summer days, garden parties, and a sense of elegance.

Looking back to the early 1900s, it feels like it was a completely different world.

But it’s also a reminder of the long history behind a local swimming club.

Founded in 1904, Mansfield Swimming Club has been part of the community for 120 years, with generations of swimmers helping to shape its story.

This year, it marked the big anniversary with a variety of celebrations — from a hilarious Silly Olympic Games event at Berry Hill Park in the town to a fun-filled presentation evening, and a friendly bowling night.

Mansfield Swimming Club members with Mansfield mayor Andy Abrahams. Photos: Steve Li (Chewbokeh Photography)

The club owes its ongoing success to a group of volunteers who are the heart and soul of everything it does. Many have been giving their time, energy, and expertise for 10, 20, or even 30 years — a remarkable display of commitment.

Among them are Sheila O’Keefe and Maureen Shaw. With their unmatched knowledge, experience, and dedication, they have been vital to the club’s success.

Even after their own children hung up their goggles, the two ladies kept supporting new waves of swimmers and their families.

Sheila and Maureen are also the masterminds behind the club’s annual Major Oak Open Meet competition, one of the highlights of its year — which in its anniversary year was extra special.

Mansfield Swimming Club’s Alex Young. Top is fellow cub swimmer Sopeoluwa Sanyaolu.

Every November more than 400 swimmers head to Mansfield for a weekend of races to showcase their skills, endurance, and determination.

The meet is not just about winning medals or setting personal bests, it’s also a chance to catch up with friends, even from rival clubs.

This year’s Major Oak Open Meet at the club’s home pool, Water Meadows Swimming and Fitness Complex, was again a success.

Special congratulations went to Lucy Tongue, of Ripley Rascals, and Harry Smith, of Mansfield Swimming Club, who earned the titles of Top Female Swimmer Top Male Swimmer respectively.

The Mayor of Mansfield, Andy Abrahams, was guest of honour. He officially opened the Skins event and handed out prizes to the winners.

Some of the club’s officials and volunteers who helped at the Major Oak Open Meet are pictured with the guest of honour, Mansfield mayor Andy Abrahams.

In his speech, the mayor highlighted the invaluable role of the swimming club in promoting physical and mental wellbeing, as well as its positive impact on the local community and economy.

The club thanked all the swimmers, families, supporters, and volunteers who made the meet a success.

The anniversary celebrations will continue at a special event for swimmers in December.

A spokesperson said: “With so much young talent in our club, the future looks brighter than ever.

“Mansfield’s rich swimming history — from the Edwardian era to tough times in history and all the way to today — shows just how strong our community’s spirit is and how dedicated we are to excelling in the sport.”

Mansfield mayor Andy Abrahams with volunteer Edyta Cummings.