A SCHOOL swimming pool in Pill will be opened to the community thanks to the efforts of parents and governors.

Crockerne Primary School is the only school in North Somerset with its own pool, which was built in the 1970s.

Unable to find money in the budget to keep the popular facility open, the school has appointed a group of parents and governors to run the pool as a going concern.

Thr first task for the Crockerne Pool Business Support Group will be to raise �15,000 toward repairs to the 40-year-old roof.

Speaking at the launch, group chairman Kieran Argo said: “We couldn’t stand by and see the pool close for lack of funding. Generations of Pill residents have learnt to swim here, including many of the parents and grandparents of today’s pupils.

“Our goal is to open up the pool to the village and beyond and make the most of it as a community resource.

“The roof needs extensive renovation and our long-term aim is to raise enough funding to carry out this work.

“In the meantime the pool is available to hire by the hour for children’s parties, and we will also be running swimming lessons and aqua aerobics classes.”

Anyone interested in hiring the pool or booking lessons should contact Julie in the main school office on 01275 372659.