Swimming enthusiasts braved freezing weather to be among the first to take a dip in South Woodham's new pool.

Amid snow flurries, eager swimmers made their way to South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre, on the William de Ferrers school site, to use the pool they, and the whole town, have dreamed of for years.

John Stuttle, a retired teacher, was first in line as the doors opened at 9am on Monday.

The 73-year-old, who has lived in the town for 35 years, said: "We have been waiting 30 years for this. It is tremendous, it's really good."

Also among the first band of swimmers was legal costs draftsman Steve Lagden, 37.

He said: "It's very impressive and fairly high tech. It's something that's been talked about for a long time and I am very glad it's here. I'll be using it two or three times a week."

Nurse Susan Nichols, 46, who has children aged 12 and 13-years-old said: "When I first came in I thought it was lovely, much better than I was expecting.

"There are a lot of adults and teenagers who will appreciate this pool."

Friends Elaine Bell, 36, and Jacqui Buckley, 42, said they look forward to not having to drive to use a swimming pool.

"We can walk down here, swim and walk home again, which saves a lot of time," said Elaine.

Representatives from Chelmsford Borough Council, South Woodham Ferrers Town Council and William de Ferrers school were there to witness the cutting of the ribbon to declare the pool, part of a £4million project at the complex, open, although an official opening ceremony will take place in March.

Cllr Maureen Moulds, Chelmsford Borough Council's cabinet member for leisure, youth and community safety, cut the ribbon.

The former South Woodham Ferrers Town Council chairman and current resident of the town, said: "Given that people are at work, youngsters are in school and the inclement weather, it's a pretty good show. My colleagues in South Woodham have worked so hard for so many years and to see it is a dream come true."

Cllr Ian Roberts, chairman of the town council and former Chelmsford Borough Councillor said: "I am extremely pleased the town now has what is has always wanted and deserved. It's impressive and I am pleased to say I was involved in the design stages, so when I look around it's great to see all the little things we had requested like the showers being nice and open, the locker arrangement and the group changing rooms."

The full timetable of lessons and activities will start next week.

Published Wednesday February 2, 2005

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