Doggy swim day at Gourock's historic outdoor pool went 'paw-fectly'

Bosses at the Inverclyde Leisure-run facility are already making plans for 2020 following the success of the first-ever canine dip on Sunday afternoon.

The event was a sell-out as 60 dogs - many accompanied by their owners - splashed around in the heated outdoor pool and the adjacent children's swimming area.

Many more watched on from the sidelines and the upstairs patio, which was packed during all three sessions as the event was declared a splash hit.

Pool manager Lauren Deveney said: "It was fantastic.

"The weather turned up as well - it was nice and dry.

"It couldn't have gone any better. You could say it went paw-fectly."

The doggy dips took place following the end of the 2019 season.

As well as the fun and games in the water, there was a variety of stalls poolside featuring local businesses and charities such as Scottish Dalmatian Welfare and Gourock's own Underheugh Ark Rescue.

Food and refreshments were provided by the cafe at the Waterfront Leisure Complex and there was even some doggy ice cream for all the keen canine swimmers.

It is believed to have been the first event of its kind in Scotland and now attentions have turned to a re-run in 2020.

Lauren said: "Even on the day itself people were asking us to do it again next year.

"The whole top patio was full for the first session as well.

"We're already thinking bigger and better for 2020 and how many days and sessions we can have. We would definitely want to book some more pool time and look to grow it."

The 110-year-old Albert Road facility is now closed to the public until May.

The pool will be completely drained, thoroughly cleaned and refilled with fresh water when reopens next year.