Angela Barnwell - Worthing’s Olympic Swimming Star and Her Lasting Legacy

Angela Mary Barnwell, born on 11th January 1936 in Worthing, was a distinguished swimmer whose remarkable achievements brought pride to her hometown. Her journey from a local athlete to an Olympic finalist exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the profound impact of community support.

Early Life and Introduction to Swimming

Angela’s parents operated a greengrocer’s shop in Worthing, providing a modest backdrop to her burgeoning swimming career. She began swimming at the age of 11 and soon joined the Worthing Swimming Club. By 13, she secured third place in the Sussex Schools 100-yard freestyle, and two years later, she clinched the championship title. Her rapid progression was evident when, in 1952, she won the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) junior girls’ 100-yard freestyle, recording a time 0.6 seconds faster than the senior winner—a record that stood for six years.

Olympic Achievement

At just 16, Angela’s prowess earned her a spot on the British team for the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. However, days before her event, she was struck by a tram in Helsinki, sustaining injuries to her thigh and elbow. Despite this setback, Angela demonstrated resilience by competing in the women’s 100-metre freestyle, reaching the final and finishing eighth. She also contributed to the women’s freestyle relay team, which secured a commendable fifth-place finish.

Community Recognition

Upon her return from Helsinki, Angela was met with overwhelming support from her hometown. Thousands lined the streets of Worthing to celebrate her achievements, highlighting the immense pride the community felt for their local hero.

Later Career and Personal Life

Angela continued to represent Great Britain in international competitions, including the 1954 European Championships in Turin and an event in Moscow in 1955. While she aspired to compete in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, changes in her training environment led to a decline in her performance. Transitioning from her athletic career, Angela completed a secretarial course and, in 1958, married Duncan Kemp, a former Great Britain water polo captain. The couple had a daughter named Bernie.

Legacy

Tragically, Angela’s life was cut short when she passed away from Hodgkin’s lymphoma on 29th June 1965, at the age of 29. Decades later, her legacy was honoured with the unveiling of a blue plaque at Splashpoint Leisure Centre in Worthing in July 2022. The ceremony was attended by her family, including her widower, Duncan, and daughter, Bernie, ensuring that Angela Barnwell’s contributions to British swimming and her inspirational story continue to be remembered by the community she once made proud.

Angela Barnwell’s journey from a local swimmer to an Olympic finalist exemplifies the impact of dedication, resilience, and community support in achieving greatness.