A swimming development officer is to be appointed to initiate and promote the sport throughout Sussex, working with volunteers, coaches, schools, clubs and other agencies to provide high quality swimming opportunities.

The move is a joint initiative between the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) South East Region, Sussex County ASA and sports trust Freedom Leisure.

“A recent trend has seen a nationwide reduction in the numbers of people regularly swimming,” said Jeff Hart, managing director of Freedom Leisure.

“By taking this positive step of appointing a dedicated, committed, enthusiastic and creative person into this new role, we hope to stimulate and encourage more people, of all ages, into the county’s excellent community pools.”

Natalie Cunningham, regional development officer of ASA South East, added: “The region is dedicated to providing opportunities for everyone to achieve their full potential through aquatics, as an athlete, teacher, coach, official or volunteer.

“This new partnership with Freedom Leisure demonstrates our commitment to working with partners to achieve our common aims.”

The development officer’s brief will also encompass speed swimming, synchronized swimming, water polo and diving.

Photograph: Brian Deval, Sussex ASA development officer; Natalie Cunningham, regional development officer, ASA South East; and Jeff Hart, managing director, Freedom Leisure