A disabled man has been able to swim with his grandchildren for the first time thanks to lifeguards at Teignmouth Lido.

Pete Haines, from Tewkesbury, was visiting family in Teignmouth. He had accompanied his daughter, Bec, and grandchildren, 12-year-old Poppy and 11-year-old Fred, on a trip to town’s outdoor swimming pool when lifeguard Harry suggested he might like to get in too.

Pete, who has peripheral neuropathy and limited mobility, is confined to a wheelchair. While apprehensive, he was keen to try despite not having been in a swimming pool for 25 years.

The Lido lifeguards, Harry, Stan and Grace, have all been trained to use the pool’s hoist and other equipment to enable disabled users to access the facilities and they were keen to put their knowledge into practice.

However, on this occasion the Lido’s hoist was not required, and Pete was able to get in with the help of his daughter.

Once in the water, the lifeguards gave Pete a pool noodle to help with his confidence as he remembered how to swim again after a quarter of a century.

‘All three lifeguards were nearby with aid equipment, ready to help if needed,’ recalled Bec. ‘This support made dad feel confident and safe, allowing him to experience his first swim with his grandchildren,’ she added.

‘They (the lifeguards) were incredibly supportive and kind. I can’t express how much of a difference they made to my dad,’ Bec said. ‘They were highly professional and knew exactly what they were doing.’

Teignmouth Lido, which is located at the East Cliff end of Teignmouth seafront, is run by Teignbridge District Council. The pool is open from May to September.