YOUNGSTERS at St Michael’s School in Minehead were splashing for joy at the opening of their new swimming pool.

Cllr Andrew Hadley officially opened the pool at a ceremony and cream tea.

The Parent-Teacher Association exceeded its target and raised £100,000 towards the cost of a replacement pool, and a shortfall was made up with donated labour from parents, grandparents and friends.

A PTA spokesman said: “Particular thanks go to the Southam, Hobbs, Lawrence, Gasperini and Sweetland families who have given up most of their weekends and skills for free.”

Sport England, West Somerset Council, Somerset Community Foundation and the Minehead Town Council all donated funds.

The PTA also won the NatWest Community Force and Breeze FM voting competitions and held a host of fundraising events.

The spokesman said: “Thankyou to all anonymous donors who have provided financial support and for every donation from members of the public.

“Finally, thankyou to C.J. Lynch, Eagle Plant, Travis Perkins, Exmoor Teddy Bears and Jonathan Sweetland, who have been invaluable in providing support and assistance.”

Pool opening times: Tuesdays, 2pm to 4pm, open swim for under- 10s, £2 each; Wednesdays, 2pm to 4pm, open swim for under-fives, £2 each; August 21 and 27, 2pm to 4pm, open swim for under-10s, £2 each; July 31, August 7, August 14, 3pm to 5pm, open swim for under- 10s, £2 each For details of private lettings at £5 membership and £15 per hour, call 07743-357047.