SWIMMING coach Anne Nugent is making a splash at Ringwood Leisure Centre after becoming one of three regional finalists nominated for the BBC’s Unsung Heroes Award.

Not only has Anne overcome her fear of the water to become one of the top instructors at the centre, she has also battled breast cancer and is now in remission.

When her four children were learning to swim, 30 years ago, Anne could no longer hide her fear of the water and so, refusing to feel like a fish out of water, she began swimming lessons at Ringwood swimming pool.

Now she is teaching people of all ages, from babies to pensioners, and is the director of coaching for the Seals Swimming Club.

After Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer, she was forced to take a break from her teaching and training, which sees her at the poolside seven days a week.

However she kept in touch with her pupils, their parents and concerned colleagues and was happy to answer their questions.

“This helped others by dispelling some of the fear that surrounds cancer,” she said.

“I know young people can get a bad reputation sometimes, but I can honestly say that they were all so loving towards me. I kept getting hugs, flowers and cards. It was a real tonic.”

Anne went back to work in September and is now looking forward to a holiday in Australia to visit two of her children.

She said: “Up to now, I’ve never travelled further than Scotland – but I’m really looking forward to being with my family and seeing something of the world.”

New Forest District Council portfolio holder for health and leisure Di Brooks said: “Anne Nugent is a truly remarkable and inspirational person who has dedicated so much of her life to helping others gain confidence in the water through swimming.

“We are privileged to have her as an ambassador for the council and for the district. I’m sure everybody joins me in wishing her all the best for the future, whether it’s carrying the Olympic torch or continuing to coach youngsters at the poolside. She really is our unsung hero.”

Her inspirational outlook and devotion to helping others is why Anne was nominated for the award.

If Anne gets through she will go forward with 14 others for the national award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony on Thursday, December 22.

The regional winner will be announced on BBC South Today on Wednesday, December 21, at 6.30pm.