NEWS last week came to NOTA the passing of much loved local and legendary swimmer Bryan English. He slipped peacefully away in Sydney with family members by his bedside. He was in his late 90s.

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Bryan, for close on 20 years, swam daily at the Tilligerry Aquatic Centre, completing 30 laps each visit although later in life he reduced his attendance to a couple of times per week. Staff and friends organized a 90th birthday party in his honour.

He often captivated friends with stories from his past: the poor boy from Wales who was bombed out (twice ) during the blitz; his service in The Home Guard and the RAF; working as a printer for the media moguls; his migration to Australia; his awards for rifle shooting; the gold prospecting and roughing it in the outback; and lots more.

Later in life, Bryan suffered from failing health, moving to Sydney to be cared for by his daughters.

He did however return several times but sensing that the end was near said on his last visit to the area saying, “This will be my last time.” He was right. Rest in Peace Mr English.