Test refill to start on empty boating lake

Members of Redcar Boating Club have been unable to use the lake due to the water level issues

A test refill is set to begin on a historic boating lake that has been empty for months.

The lake in Newcomen Terrace in Coatham, Redcar, has been blighted by consistent low water levels for about three years.

Repairs have been carried out and Redcar and Cleveland Council said it was "determined" to restore it to "a high standard".

Members of Redcar Model Boat Club, which uses the lake, said they were "a little bit sceptical", but had their "fingers crossed" it would reopen soon.

"We've raced cars, we've built mini yachts. We've tried all sorts of different things just to keep us amused," said treasurer Dale Patterson.

The club has been racing radio-controlled cars in the empty lake

The club is the only social outlet for some members and Mr Patterson said they had travelled several times to Hemlington Lake in nearby Middlesbrough to practise their hobby.

"We've got to keep the club going just to keep everyone's chin up," he said.

"Funnily enough, we've had one or two people saying they want to join, but it's hard to drum up any interest for a boating club without water."

Mr Patterson said it was important to keep the boating club going

A number of repairs have been carried out over the winter, including the installation of new sluice gates.

Cracks and seals have also been repaired and painting is currently taking place, the Labour-led local authority said.

Council leader Alec Brown said tests were due to begin next week, with an opening date potentially announced afterwards.

Brown, who met the model boat club in February, said: "I'm passionate about my town and I love the boating lake and I am determined that it will open again as soon as possible.

"I hope that people will understand that problems do occur with popular attractions after many years."

Mr Patterson previously said the 1930s lake was "the jewel in the crown" and fixing it would benefit the whole area.

"We'll put a lot of boats in, no doubt," he said.