A swimming pool and leisure centre has praised the support it has received after confirming it has met its crowdfunding target and is now set to open its pools on April 12.

Haltwhistle Swimming & Leisure Centre created the fundraiser earlier this year in the hope of being able to open in time for the summer season getting underway, and after over £5,000 has been raised it’s now set to reopen its three pools.

“We really are grateful to everyone who has supported our appeal and to local businesses Ritemix and Potts Plant Hire that have helped with goods and equipment,” said Manger Maxine Wilson.

“Our small staff team have worked extremely hard to get the swimming pools ready and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back.”

The centre is a registered charity and relies on grants and donations to keep operating, with the pools being one of the town’s most popular locations each year.

The news means the pools are now set to be able to open in a matter of days after last summer saw them remain closed due to the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent restrictions that were put in place around the country.

“The Leisure Centre and Swimming Pools are a great asset to the town and provide local people and visitors with a great facility that encourages fun and exercise,” added Maxine.

“This benefits everyone’s health and wellbeing and is so important in the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The money has gone towards both maintenance and also the necessary repairs to ensure both the pools themselves as well as their surrounding grounds are able to open to the public.

The pools are one of the most popular attractions in the town and opened back in 1975.