The swimming season got under way on Saturday at Lazonby’s volunteer-run outdoor pool following completion of some major upgrade work.
This year’s Big Splash launch event saw a full house of 60 swimmers jump into the water to experience the transformed pool. Children and families made the most of the beautiful sunny weather, enjoying blue skies and sparkling clear water heated to a comfortable 26C.
During the previous three months, the pool had been totally transformed thanks to several large grants and a multitude of smaller donations.
It now has a modern filtration system with surface skimmers, but the main change is the new liner — gone for ever are the days of annual repainting and flaking blue epoxy.
Stuart St John, chairman of the pool committee, said: “We would like to acknowledge grants from donors including Cumbria Waste Management Environmental Trust, Bells of Lazonby and Westmorland and Furness Council, as well as several local parish councils, charitable bodies, Lakes and Dales Co-op and Nuclear Transport Solutions — plus the many local people who gave generously to make it happen.”
Lazonby pool was originally built in 1964 following a fundraising campaign by John Hume, the headmaster of Lazonby School. One former pupil still remembers having to carry bricks across to the site!
The pool volunteers have raised funds for improvements before, for example to build a changing room and showers for the disabled, but the latest works means the whole pool system will be able to continue for many years to come. It is well used over the summer months, especially by youngsters and families.
It also supports many organisations, including village schools, local clubs, groups such as Mencap, scouts, beavers, cubs and church groups.
It is also the venue for adult keep fit and water polo sessions.
