LEISURE chiefs have hailed this year’s opening of Gourock Outdoor Pool as one of the best ever.

The annual ‘big jump in’ took place on Friday afternoon to mark the start of the new swimming season at the historic Albert Road facility — and it was packed with people of all ages keen to take advantage of the glorious sunshine.

Bosses from pool operators Inverclyde Leisure said the event was the most well attended in over a decade and one of the busiest on record.

As is tradition, schoolchildren from across the district helped with the countdown before jumping into the water to declare the 108-year-old pool officially open for 2017.

There was also a bouncy castle, face painting and food for everyone to enjoy.

Manager Lauren O’Donnell said: “It was the busiest it’s been in years.

“I was told it’s the most number of people we’ve had for the opening in over 10 years.

“We had a really great turnout and excellent weather, which allowed us to get the bouncy castle out and have facepainting and food.

“It’s definitely the best I’ve been involved in, everyone was in good spirits.”

The pool is now open through until September and bosses hope the recent mild, sunny weather can continue.

Lauren said: “We had a great opening weekend and the weather is still really good.

“We’ve been really busy.

“All the regulars are back and we managed to get some others signed up too.

“It’s been a great start to the season.”