Leisure centre staff pay tribute to hero Conrad Lewis

The Warwick paratrooper, who was killed in action in Afghanistan, worked as a lifeguard at Newbold Comyn Leisure Centre before he joined the army.

To pay tribute to the 22-year-old, staff will take part in a 24-hour swimathon to raise money for the armed forces charity Help for Heroes.

In a heartfelt letter to Pte Lewis’s family shortly after his death, staff members said: “Conrad was a unique individual who brightened up many a gloomy day at Newbold Comyn Leisure Centre with his uplifting presence and his larger than life personality.

“He was someone who always had time for his colleagues and was a kind and caring individual.

“We were privileged to have worked with and known Conrad , every member of staff has their own memory of him.

“Conrad has always been talked about fondly to this day and his death has come as a great shock to us all.”

The swimathon will take place on Sunday July 24 from 5pm.

Before this event gym members can take part in two challenges at the leisure centre - to cycle 5km or to row 2km in the fastest time.

Each attempt will cost £2 with prizes for the winners, who will be announced on the day of the swimathon.

Staff are also holding a raffle and a competition to guess how many sweets there are in a jar.

Laura Harris, the centre’s supervisor, said: “Conrad was a true hero who is fondly remembered by all staff and we are keen to do something in his memory to raise money for Help for Heroes.”

Pte Lewis, of 4th Battalion The Parachute Regiment, died as a result of gunshot wounds after coming under enemy fire while he was attached to 3rd Battalion (3 Para) in Helmand Province in February.