YOUTHS are breaking into Gourock Pool at night sparking safety fears.

Police received calls about youths reportedly running over the pool's tarpaulin cover when the facility is closed.

Soaring temperatures have brought swimmers out to enjoy the sunshine in the open-air pool but police say unwelcome out-of-hours visitors are putting themselves at risk.

Sergeant Laura Stewart of Greenock Police say such actions could lead to tragic consequences.

She told the Telegraph: "We have received reports over the last few weeks of people accessing the pool when it is closed and covered.

"Aside from the fact that they are not authorised to be there and could face charges, there are real concerns regarding the safety of these individuals.

"If they got into difficulty in the water or trapped under the tarpaulin then there is no-one monitoring the pool and there is a real risk of drowning.

"Please don't risk your life for a carry on and think about the consequences of your actions."

Bosses at Inverclyde Leisure say they are doing everything they can to ensure public safety.

A spokesman for Inverclyde Leisure said: "It is against the law to break in to any Inverclyde Leisure facilities.

"Inverclyde Leisure manage safety as a priority at all our centres and have no fears over the safety at Gourock Pool.

"We are confident that we have taken all reasonable steps under our control to protect public safety.

"We have also been in contact with Police Scotland and the community wardens requesting they help monitor unauthorised access.

"We have CCTV actively motoring the pools, safety signage and we have emergency call out procedures if required."