Meet the Pool to Pier Team

Heather Bright - Pool to Pier Coach

Heather came back to swimming via Pool to Pier in 2010 and was quickly converted into a passionate open water swimmer.  The novelty of being in the water remains, so every swim is a favourite; highlights are an English Channel Relay, Dart 10K and Coniston Water. Whether swimming, scuba diving or rowing, she can often be found in the sea, a lido or a lake. Heather has been coaching since 2012, and has as a Level 2 and Open Water Coach qualification. Heather’s calm, pragmatic approach to coaching has seen her gather a keen following of swimmers who want to swim for pleasure, have an eye for the technical and share a similar fascination for the water.

James Bonner - Pool to Pier Coach

James has been working for Brighton Swimming School for twelve years, and Pool to Pier for the last three years. Having completed various swimming and running events (including two Iron Man swims, two triathlons, four marathons and various other events) he's a key member of the Pool to Pier team. James has an ASA Level 2 Swimming Teaching qualification, an ASA Level 1 Swimming Coaching qualification, an STA Open Water Coaching Level 2 qualification, NPLQ lifeguard and Level 3 Personal Training. His favourite place to swim is Croatia on the coast of Split.  
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Ashley Newman - Pool to Pier Coach

Ash is an experienced member of the team  and has been working with Brighton Swimming School for over 10 years, joining  Pool to Pier in 2015. Ash is a Level 2 Swimming Teaching and NPLQ lifeguard and coaches both adults and our Teen Pool to Pier group. Together with this Ash is also an RLSS Trainer and Assessor delivering Lifeguard courses both in Sussex and Kent. Ash's favourite place he has swum, The Great Barrier Reef.

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Colin Moss - Pool to Pier Coach

Colin is our newest member of the team, having worked previously for Brighton Swimming School for five years. Before this, Colin coached at Brighton Swimming Club. Colin is both a Level 2 Swimming Teacher and Level 2 Swimming Coach. Having previously swum on the Pool to Pier course himself, Colin is now enjoying continuing his involvement through coaching. His favourite place to swim is anywhere warm!


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Paul Smith - Pool to Pier Managing Director

Paul Smith founded the P2P programme in 2009 and has been a keen open water swimmer throughout his life. Paul has built his business life around swimming creating both the Brighton Swimming School and training company, Swim UK. His role on the P2P programme is to oversee the beach sessions. He starts every day of the year with a sea swim at the Palace Pier at 7am. His favourite swims include around the Palace Pier just as the sun is rising up with a blue sky and the peace and tranquility of the morning. A close runner up is anywhere in Croatia!