A POPULAR tourist attraction has been forced to close after owner Jennifer Barnard died, aged 91.

The iconic Blue Pool on the Furzebrook Estate in Purbeck has announced that the site has had to close due to legal implications.

Miss Barnard had been running the tourist attraction for 65 years.

A spokesperson said: “Due to the sad passing of the sole proprietor Miss Barnard, the pool is now in the hands of the executors and probate proceedings. All staff would like to say thank you for all your support.

“We will update you with further information as and when we are able too. Once again thank you to you all.”

The Blue Pool is a man-made lake, created by flooding a former clay quarry. The site is popular with tourists and locals alike and features a museum and tea rooms.

The pool is set in a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is surrounded by 25 acres of heath, woodland and gorse interlaced with sandy paths.

Miss Barnard's friend Carolyn Snook said: “She was a great friend to me.

“I am finding it quite difficult. Her father left the pool to her and she has been running it for more than 65 years.

“She baked every scone that we sold here, the last scones she baked was before lockdown.

“She was a bestie, a granny, all sorts of things to me. She was a legend.

“I started here at 13-years-old and learned everything I know from her. She was incredible.”