Swimmers and spectators will pay 1979 entry prices to join in the 40th anniversary celebration day at Kingsteignton Swimming Pool tomorrow, June 8.

For the afternoon fun sessions adults pay just 30p, children 15p and spectators 10p – the prices charged on the gate 40 years ago.

To celebrate the day there will also be an inflatable assault course, charged at 2019 prices, and an adult’s dip n dine evening event, including music and hot food from The Old Rydon Inn. There’ll also be a barbecue from the Inn throughout the day and an anniversary birthday cake.

Jan Collins, chair of the swimming pool committee, said: ‘We’re inviting everyone to be a part of this very special day, to commemorate the opening of this valuable community facility.

‘In December 1972, a group of villagers and councillors met to discuss whether they thought enough support could be raised to build an outdoor swimming pool in Kingsteignton. As a result of the meeting an action group was formed and public meeting arranged - 60 people attended and all were enthusiastic about the idea.’

Jan said, after initial consultations, Devon County Council agreed to lease the land at Meadowcroft Drive to Kingsteignton Parish Council as custodian trustees on behalf of the Kingsteignton Swimming Pool and Recreational Association for a period of 50 years.

Fundraising for the pool began in April 1973 with a coffee morning raising £13. Other fundraising included a buy a brick scheme, golf ball racing days, a monthly bingo, house-to-house collections, whist drives and a street market. The committee erected a large target board at Whiteway Road to show the villagers the progress of the fundraising.

The first turf was cut on November 12 1977 and by May 1979 the build was complete. Keith Sykes, of Watts Blake Bearne, officially opened Kingsteignton Swimming Pool on June 9 1979.

Jan added: ‘In 1985 the committee began their next objective to build a toddler pool alongside the main pool. After two years of creative and innovative ideas funding was secured and the new children’s area was officially opened on 1987.

‘By the end of the 2014 season the main pool was in need of vital and substantial improvements. The committee set out to raise in excess of £30,000 through fundraising and grants. In April 2015 visitors were able to see the rewards of the hard work achieved over the winter period.

‘In 2017 the committee commenced a long term plan project to refurbish the internal facilities.

‘Kingsteignton Swimming Pool was built by the Community for the community. The committee would like to thank all the volunteers and helpers who continue to support this fantastic facility.’