Swimsuit rally over pool closure

Protesters braved the cold : pic Mike Lang

Members of a swimming pool group opposed to plans for its closure have held a protest rally at the premises wearing only swimsuits.

Sedgemoor Council aims to close the pool at Burnham-on-Sea in order to make savings of £1.8m from its budget.

A council spokesperson said money from the sale of the site could be put towards alternative swimming provision.

Protest organiser Julian Plested said: "We cannot believe that they plan to close such a vital local asset."

Among the protesters was 86-year-old local swimmer and veteran triathlete Arthur Gilbert who was recently awarded the MBE for his charitable works.

"It would be a tragedy to lose the pool as it is a popular asset which draws people to Burnham.

"The triathlon is a wonderful event which raises thousands of pounds for charity."

Also protesting was Margaret Smith, founder member of the disabled swimmers group.

"We set up the group 22 years ago and it is swimming that has helped me to walk again," she said.