Singer Scott McManus spent years belting out soul and Motown hits at pubs and clubs across the north west.

But when his third child was born, the 41-year-old dad from Rudheath, decided to take the plunge and train for a new career as a lifeguard.

Already a member at Brio Leisure’s Northwich Memorial Court, Scott signed up for a six-week training course to obtain his National Pool Lifeguard Qualification.

And Scott’s now become a familiar face in the lifeguard high seat at the centre.

“I used to sing all over the region, but clubland isn’t what it was and I also wanted more family time and the benefits of a regular full time job,” said Scott.

“I’ve always loved swimming. I enjoy meeting new people and the course wasn’t expensive. There was also the chance of a job at the end of it so I decided to go for it.

“I think I was the oldest person on that course, but the first one to be offered a job by Brio. Two more people on the course also got jobs, so it turned out really well for me.

Jeff Nield, a relief duty manager at Brio Leisure and the training assessor for lifeguard courses, said taking part in the NPLQ training was, for many, the first step in a career in leisure.

“Lots of our management team at Northwich Memorial Court were lifeguards when they were younger,” he said.

Candidates need to be aged 16 or over and able to swim 100 metres on their fronts and backs and 50 metres in under 60 seconds.

Scott’s training was put to good use on his first day poolside.

“A female swimmer suffered a seizure and was fitting at the side of the pool. Luckily everything I had learned fell into place, we were able to help, and she made a full recovery,” he said.

Scott’s new career already has him looking to the future.

“The qualification is a life skill that everyone should have. I love being a lifeguard but I also want to progress and one day hope to be a centre manager.”

As for the singing, Scott’s still keeping in tune.

“I still get the opportunity to have a little sing song … usually when Aqua Fit classes are on in the pool and the music is turned up!” he said.