THE reopening of Gourock's iconic outdoor pool was a splash hit thanks to some glorious spring sunshine.

Keen swimmers flooded into the famous Albert Road facility yesterday morning from 7.30am for the first dip of the year.

The team at the 110-year-old pool spent weeks preparing for swimmers of all ages to return to the water, after pools and leisure facilities were recently given the green light by the Scottish Government.

George Munro, pool manager, said: "It's so good to be back and seeing swimmers enjoy this amazing facility again.

"We were very lucky that we had good weather and have had excellent feedback from everyone so far.

"There's a really good atmosphere - everyone is just so chuffed to be back."

Swimmers must book a lane in advance and are encouraged to arrive ‘beach ready’, although changing facilities are available after their swim.

The summer season was lost to the pandemic last year, so getting back in the water this year was an extra special moment for local swimmers.

Greenock woman Clare Arhimandritis learned how to swim in Gourock Pool almost forty years ago, so she was overjoyed to be one of the first to take the plunge on Friday.

The 58-year-old told the Tele: "I absolutely love Gourock Pool, I'm so glad to be back and ready for the season ahead.

"I learned how to swim here when I was 10, so it's a place with special memories for me.

"Everyone had a smile on their face and enjoyed seeing each other - it's so good to be back."

Stuart Boyle, Inverclyde Leisure operations manager, added: "We are absolutely delighted to re-open our iconic pool for a full season, especially after the difficulties faced during the last year.

"We have increased bather numbers from 30 to 66 in the pool and we can't wait to welcome everyone back.

"We're so looking forward to the season ahead."