MARGARET Hunter has never wanted to make a big splash in life.

Her last 30 years have been selflessly devoted to helping thousands of Wharfedale people aged between five and 85 to swim.

But Mrs Hunter is now getting the recognition she deserves - as the third monthly winner of our Wharfedale Community Oscars scheme, which recognises and rewards people's tireless community work, which often goes unseen.

Mrs Hunter has been nominated by former swimming pupil Sheila Paget for the March Wharfedale Community Oscar.

Our awards scheme, which this newspaper runs monthly in association with Cutlers Bar and Brasserie, of Burley-in-Wharfedale, and Paul Wilkinson Photography, of Ilkley, is selecting a winner each month during this millennium year.

Mrs Hunter wins a meal for two at Cutlers and a framed certificate from Wharfedale Newspapers.

She joins Tom Sumner of Burley-in-Wharfedale and Nellie Booth of Yeadon as previous monthly winners who go through to a final judging at the end of the year, the winner receiving a special photo shoot with a family portrait by award-winning photographer Paul Wilkinson - a prize worth £375.

Sheila Paget, of Crossbeck Road, Ilkley, said she had no doubt that Mrs Hunter was a worthy recipient.

"Margaret has taught swimming to literally thousands of children since before 1970, at the grammar school baths, for the little ones, and at Denton Road pool when they were bigger," she said.

"My own children were in her class in 1970 and now, 30 years later, my little granddaughter is in the class.

"She was a tower of strength to Ilkley swimming club for many years and served on the Airedale and Wharfedale ASA committee and as the chairman at one time.

"I never knew how she managed to fit all this in, as well as being a well-known dressmaker of outstanding ability and at the same time looking after own family.

"If anyone ever needed help with any project, regarding swimming, or almost anything else, she was always prepared to give her unstinting support.

"I hope that she will be able to continue her good work for the benefit of many more children in the future."

Pensioner Mrs Hunter, who has no plans to retire and teaches 80 swimmers with her Castaways club on Tuesday and Friday nights at the grammar school, said she was very flattered to receive the award.

"I do it all voluntarily - I take no payment. I think it is important that youngsters from all backgrounds should learn how to swim, find out about life saving, water safety and generally looking after themselves in water," she said.

"In all the thousands of people I've taught, I can't remember anyone who has failed.

"I once successfully taught an 80-year-old who couldn't swim in just six lessons."

l Do you know someone who works selflessly for the community or a good cause without recognition?

Why not nominate them for our April Community Oscar?

Write, giving the reasons why you think that person should win the award, to Wharfedale Community Oscars, 9 Orchard Gate, Otley LS21 3NX.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.