A MAJOR Tyne Valley leisure centre has announced it will not open its outdoor swimming pools for the season.

In a statement released last week, Haltwhistle Swimming & Leisure Centre said the decision had been taken reluctantly after much deliberation and discussion

The statement read: "The board and management have taken into account both the implementation of the safety measures and the financial impact of not having a full season and have concluded that to open the pools, with the restrictive measures, would be detrimental to the future of the swimming pool and leisure centre.

"Our fitness suite, sports hall, studio and astroturf will reopen on Monday, July 27, with restrictions in place to meet government guidance.

"Thank you for your understanding through this difficult time and we look forward to welcoming our customers back."