The Ward Freman Swimming Pool has been an essential part of the Buntingford community and surrounding villages since the 1970s. Generations of children and adults have learned to swim there and competed in school and club competitions. When the district council announced its closure in December 2023 due to health and safety concerns, the community was both surprised and saddened.

Determined to save this vital facility, a group of local residents formed the Ward Freman Community Pool Group Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), a registered charity in England and Wales (1207746). Their goal is to repair, revitalise, and reopen the pool as a community-owned and operated asset.

As part of their fundraising strategy, the group sought support from local businesses through a sponsored reusable bag initiative. Businesses would sponsor the bags, which would then be sold in local shops, with all proceeds contributing to the pool’s restoration. We were proud to work with them in selecting the ideal bag for their campaign. They chose the GJ030 Standard Natural Portrait Jute Bag, designed with luxury soft cotton padded handles and a navy and turquoise two-sided print that highlights their artwork and the logos of 14 sponsors.

Upon receiving the bags, the Ward Freman Community Pool Group CIO was “over the moon” with the result. On Christmas Eve morning alone, they sold 144 bags at their local Co-op, generating significant funds for their efforts.

This initiative highlights the power of community-led fundraising and the impact that sustainable, branded products can have. We are honoured to have played a role in supporting this project and wish the group every success in reopening this much-loved facility.

Find out more about how you can support the Ward Freman Community Pool Group CIO in their fundraising efforts.