School swimming pool to reopen after fundraiser

Lisa Williams and Ally Higgins said the pool has been a feature of the community for generations

A primary school's outdoor swimming pool will reopen next year after a massive fundraising drive by staff, parents and the local community.

Leonard Stanley C of E Primary School, near Stroud in Gloucestershire, closed the pool two years ago after cracks appeared in its foundations.

Non-uniform days, sponsored walks and even a skydive contributed to the £55,000 needed to start the work, which is expected to be finished by Christmas.

"It's just amazing for the kids," said Ally Higgins, chair of the Parent Teacher Association at the school.

"It's been the biggest community effort to get the pool rebuilt and we're hoping to get the community involved to make sure as many people as possible get to use it.

The school's office manager and former pupil, Lisa Williams added: "There's nothing better than hearing the children laughing and splashing on a summer's evening, it just makes you proud that you've got this wonderful asset."

More fundraising to come

The pool is scheduled for a grand reopening in the May half term when temperatures have warmed.

As well as providing pupils with somewhere to have swimming lessons, the pool is also open to local residents who can use it during weekends and school holidays.

A paid summer membership scheme is in place where all proceeds go towards the running of the scheme.

"We're also looking at opening up to the other schools and maybe doing a mums and tots or retirees swimming mornings," said Ms Higgins.

The pool may be built but the fundraisers have said that more is needed to continue the improvements.

Next on the list is the changing rooms, which Ms Williams said have not changed since the 1970s.