Pimlico Puffins is led by a team of dedicated volunteers and swimmers who’s aim is to make the club welcoming and productive for disability swimmers across London.
Club Chair
Daiga Taurite
Hi! Originally from Latvia, I moved to London in 2005 & returned to swimming as an adult in 2015. Shortly afterwards I joined Puffins, initially as a volunteer and later as a member of the committee which I really enjoy! Fortunately I work in the sports industry which suits my love of (most!) sports & outdoor activities.
Club Secretary
Corinne Leong
As Puffin’s longest serving volunteer, I support Daiga and the rest of the committee with all aspects of the club operations most recently with all of the processes involved in us becoming a charity. Whether it is compiling our membership database or supporting our swimmers at every swimming gala I have a passion for Puffins – the club & the birds!
TREASURER
Rob Davies
I joined Puffins in 2004 as a swimming helper. I have been Treasurer since 2006, but I moved away from London in 2007. I’m an artist and I live on the west Coast of Wales with my wife, our two Staffies, Mili and Popi and our 20 year old cat Parsnip.
COMMITTEE
Rois Banks
I heard about Puffins from an older pupil at my primary school who had a disability and recommended the club. I have now been coming for over 20 years and, more recently, I have been helping out on the committee as a swimmer representative. There have been many changes over that time and I felt it was important to play a part when possible. I help Lynn with the transport when she is away and assist with the attendance poll for each session.
COMMITTEE
Lynn Yambao
I have been a swimmer since 2011, I am proof that the ethos of Pimlico Puffins really works! At my first session I entered the pool from the hoist and swam one length with a helper. Having been the co-ordinator of the “bus” in Westminster every Monday since 2012. If a swimmer is sick or has not been to a session which is unusual for them, I telephone or text them. I am often the first at the pool so when we have new swimmers or helper I can greet them.
COMMITTEE
Robin Banks
I started coming to Puffins some 20 years ago as a carer when my daughter, Rois, was still at school. It was some time before I started helping other swimmers and more recently joined the committee to see if there were other ways to contribute. These include the social side of Puffins outside of the pool, the gala and other events, for example. Recently I have been working on the newsletter, seeking contributions from our members.
COMMITTEE
Cian O Leary
I have been involved with Puffins since moving to London from Ireland in June 2017. Working with people with disabilities in the water was a small part of my qualification but left a great impression on me and is something that I really enjoy. As the Fundraising Officer, it is my job to support people and groups in donations, running fundraising events and being the main point of contact for any fundraising queries.
COMMITTEE
Lucy Mangan
I joined Puffins in 2022 when I moved to London after graduating. I swam lots throughout my childhood and then taught swimming alongside my studies, wanted to find a way to give back and found Puffins. I love Mondays and the community Puffins has created and got involved with committee to be responsible for our website and social media.
COMMITTEE
Riccardo Ferrari
I first started volunteering with Puffins in 2017 after being inspired by a TV series. I have a background in swimming as a teacher and lifeguard, and I was on the lookout for a volunteering opportunity. Puffins matched the two perfectly! What made me join Puffins was its mission but what made me stay was the great atmosphere, the fun I had and the friends I made.
COMMITTEE
Ela Banach
Swimming has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I’ve enjoyed not only swimming but also exploring various water sports, and I’m eager to share the freedom and joy I find in the water with others. As a Puffins volunteer and committee member, I have helped people of all abilities and ages experience the benefits of the water. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels confident and enjoys their time in the water.