SUPER swimmers cooled down in Gourock Pool as Inverclyde sizzled in the sunshine yesterday.

More than 300 people flocked to enjoy a splash in the stunning saltwater pool – demand was so great at one stage that the gates were temporarily closed.

Queues of people gathered outside, desperate to enjoy a bit of fun on the ‘Riviera on the Clyde’ as the mercury soared to almost 30 degrees – the hottest day of the year.

Lauren O’Donnell, facility manager, said: “It was a great day.

“By mid afternoon we had over 300 people, so we had to close temporarily.

“It’s good fun for all the family, the pool attracts swimmers and sunbathers alike and it offers something for the kids and their parents at the same time.”

Lauren says yesterday was one of the busiest days of the year at the pool so far.

She said: “We had a couple of busy days in May and this matched it. We’ve only had one other day this season when we’ve had to close.”

The diving board and baby pool areas were open and there were plenty of sunbathers soaking up the rays.

Lauren said: “As soon as there is demand we open the other areas and it’s good to see all the facilities being used.”

Carolanne Johnston, 37, from Greenock, took daughter Stephanie Turner, 11, and her four friends along to the pool.

She said: “We had to queue to get in. 

Carol Rae, 58, from Renfrew, was visiting the pool for the first time along with her daughter.

She said: “It’s a pity we don’t get better weather more often.
“I’ll definitely be back.”

Councillor Terry Loughran, who was also at the pool, said: “It’s Inverclyde’s jewel in the crown and it’s the nicest place to be in the whole of Scotland on a day like this. In terms of projecting Inverclyde as place to live and work, Gourock Pool showcases the best of what Inverclyde has to offer.”