IT’S only seven weeks to go until swimmers can take the plunge again at Gourock’s Outdoor Pool.

Staff at the open air saltwater pool, now in its 107th year, are working round the clock to get the facility ready for the annual ‘Big Jump In’ on Friday May 5.

Stuart Boyle, who started his career as a lifeguard at the pool before working his way up to operations manager at Inverclyde Leisure, says a lot of hard work goes in to making the pool look as good as it does.

Stuart said: “Gourock Pool is definitely a jewel in the crown for Inverclyde Leisure.

“It’s one of only two open air pools in Scotland but we are the only one with saltwater. We are looking forward to getting it open.”

The Tele was invited down to the pool to see the rigorous preparations  which are well underway.

Stuart said: “The pool has been drained so that it can be cleaned, washed and painted.

“Then about two weeks before it is due to open, we will fill it back up.

“The water is pulled in from the Clyde and comes in through our filtering system before it goes into the pool.

“It then takes a week to heat up the water and it is also treated.

“Jim Lyon does a great job of overseeing all of the maintenance work.”

Staff will be the first to dive into the freshly filled pool as they undergo lifeguard training before it re-opens.

Lauren O’Donnell, who is the facility manager, said: “The swimmers that we have are really enthusiastic about the pool and are the ones who keep it going.

“The people of Gourock are really proud of the pool and they take a lot of ownership for it because it’s their pool and they know the history behind it.

“The team here are really excited, it’s going to be a great summer.”

David McCorkindale, who is head of leisure and community facilities, hopes to see as many people as possible at the ‘Big Jump In’.

He said: “Inverclyde Leisure are delighted the Gourock Pool season will commence on May 5 and encourage our loyal and new customers to utilise this fantastic facility come rain or shine and show your support, as Inverclyde Leisure are the only Scottish leisure trust to operate such a unique facility in the heart of our fabulous community.”