Teignmouth Lido will open for the summer season on Saturday May 23, as work continues to secure its long-term future.

The outdoor community pool will be open in time for the half-term holiday, and will be offering a programme of swimming sessions and classes throughout the summer months.

It comes after what has described as a ‘victory for people power’, when the strongly- supported Save the Lido campaign successfully overturned a decision by Teignbridge District Council to keep the pool closed this summer as a money-saving measure.

The Teignmouth Lido Community Trust aims to acquire the pool for the benefit of local people, and have it run by team of volunteers.

Following the district council’s U-turn on the summer closure plan, Teignbridge Leisure has focused on getting the pool ready for the summer season. The lido has had a thorough deep clean, IT infrastructure has been installed, and seasonal staff have been recruited.

The district council’s Executive Member for Leisure and Recreation , Councillor John Nutley, said:

“After listening to our residents our staff have been working incredibly hard to open the Lido for the summer with a wide-ranging programme of sessions and classes to encourage wellbeing across all ages and abilities.

“The Lido remains an important part of the local community, providing a space for families, residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor swimming and leisure throughout the summer months.

“I am incredibly proud of the huge amount of work our staff have put in to get the pool ready to open by the start of May half term.”

Meanwhile the Teigmmouth Lido Community Trust has now achieved charity status and set up a bank account for its fundraising.

In a statement on its Facebook page the Trust said: “Regular meetings are being held to facilitate our hopes of successfully bidding to acquire the lido for the community and to present the best possible business plan.

“Watch out for the launch of the merchandise available from local Teignmouth businesses. And also ways other businesses can support us moving forward.”