SWIMMERS have been urged to splash the cash as a fundraising campaign to improve a vital part of Petersfield’s open air pool has been launched.
Supporters of Petersfield open air swimming pool are looking to raise £72,000 to revamp the children’s pool at the popular attraction.
They’re already well on their way as the Friends of Langrish School (FOLS) have donated the £6,000 raised from their own pool campaign to the appeal, while an anonymous trustee has also gifted £10,000 to the cause.
Last summer was a record-breaking one for the attraction but there was disappointment for parents with young children as the paddling pool was closed for the second summer in a row.
"What we realised after last summer is the children’s pool needs to be fixed," said Debbie Mitchell, pool manager.
"It’s going to cost a lot but after lots of discussion and responses and queries we’ve decided to go for it.
"We’ve just started a Justgiving appeal and we’re going for grants.
"It’s going to cost £72,000 to rebuild. It’s aimed at under fives and it’s got to have a new pump and its own filtration system.
"We would love to start work in autumn so it’s ready in time for the 2020 season and I think that’s achievable."
Users can hear more about the project when the pool’s annual meeting takes place at 7.30pm on Wednesday in Petersfield Community Centre. Big things are also planned for the pool’s reopening on April 13 with highlights including a book signing and various stalls.
Supporters would also like to thank the FOLP for their help as they were equally disappointed their campaign to keep Langrish School Pool open didn’t succeed.
Debbie added: "It was really generous of them but it was also a shame because we helped them with fundraising."
To make a donation follow the Justgiving link at www.petersfieldpool.org