Tributes paid to Wareham swimming teacher Joy Grounds

Joy was well-known around Wareham as a mother, teacher and legendary volunteer swimming instructor.

Joy was born in Corfe Castle in 1930 to parents Cyril and Doris Cottee. Her grandfather S.W Cottee started Wareham market.

When Joy was 14 she taught her friend to swim, excited by this achievement, she decided that she would teach every child in Wareham to swim.

And for more than 50 years she exceeded that goal with energy and commitment.

Joy worked with great passion and never cancelled a single class, nor did she forget a name of a single pupil and all was done without taking a penny.

Joy always wanted her students to be happy and confident, with patience and encouragement, she helped young swimmers overcome every obstacle.

As the years passed she taught the children and grandchildren of her original pupils.

The ripple effect of Joy's presence in the community was enormous, as she trained swimming teachers as well.

In 1993 Joy was appointed as President of the STA (Swimming Teachers Association), an international post.

Using her experience and deep understanding she developed a new set of award badges.

In recognition of her work, she was invited to the Queen's Garden Party, which meant a great deal to her.

Aside from swimming, Joy was a mother of 10 children, whom she raised in Wareham with its two rivers and nearby beaches of which Joy was very fond.

Both Joy and her husband Joe were swimming teachers and wanted their children to be fit, happy and safe.

Joy died at her home in Wareham in the presence of her youngest son; she was 92.

Joy leaves nine children, 22 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. 

Daughter Rose Grounds said Joy would be "greatly missed".

She said: "We invite you all to join us in celebrating her life."

Joy's funeral will be held on April 18 at 10.30am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Poole.

It will be followed by the wake at The Springfield Country Hotel near Wareham at 1pm.