SWIMMERS have given the thumbs up to the summer extension for Gourock’s historic outdoor pool – and are encouraging people to take the plunge in support.

The popular salt water pool was due to close for the season on Monday but will remain open until October 1 as part of a one-off trial following a public petition.

Now pool users are encouraging people to show their support by taking advantage of the extension.

Regular customer Caroline Forbes, from Inverkip, said: “I’m delighted about the extension.

“I swim here every day.

“September is always a good month, so it was always a shame when the pool closed and you had to swim inside.

“I just hope everybody comes along and makes use of it.
“It would be great if it could be extended permanently.”

Susie Clark, 53, from Fort Matilda, who also swims at the pool every day, added: “This is a fantastic facility.

“We are so lucky and privileged to have such a wonderful pool here.”

Friends Liz Leggete, Liz Paterson, Carol Simpson and Rona Lokie, told the Tele they are thrilled that they can swim outdoors for longer this year – especially as they travel from Ayrshire to use the pool.

Carol said: “It’s great news that the swimming season has been extended, as we make the effort to travel here and use the pool in all weathers. We come here for the salt water – we love it.”

Liz Paterson added: “The health benefits from swimming in the salt water are huge.”

Pool manager Lauren O’Donnell is hoping the pool to stays busy throughout September.

She said: “Every year people ask us to keep the pool open longer so it’s good to be able to deliver it this year.

“The weather always picked up every year when the pool closed in September.” David McCorkindale of Inverclyde Leisure says pool usage through the month will be analysed and presented to Inverclyde Council, who own the pool and funded the trial extension.

He said: “For everybody who voted for the extension, this is their opportunity to vote with their goggles and swimming caps and get in the pool.”

The extension, which starts on Tuesday, will see the pool open from noon until 7pm from Monday to Friday and from 10am to 4.30pm on Saturday and Sunday.