Ref.10508THE people of Malmesbury have been flocking in their hundreds to cool down at the open air pool as temperatures soared across Wiltshire.

There were queues at the pool on Old Alexander Road, which had a one- out, one-in policy, after 200 people packed in for a cooling dip.

Duty manager Dave Goodwin-Fielding said there had been around 300 people throughout the day on Monday and Tuesday and expected more of the same as the hot weather was forecast to continue.

He said: "We had to shut the gates over the last two days which is very rare. We had people queuing up to get in and we couldn't let them in because we were full."

This is the last season for the pool, which will shut on August 31 after being open for 43 years. A new multi-million pound indoor pool being built next to the Activity Zone at Bremilham Road is on schedule for a Christmas opening and will replace the open air pool.

Bathers said their enjoyment over the last few days was tinged with sadness at the loss of the pool.

Sue Pratt, 57, of Filands, said: "It is an absolutely excellent pool with quality water and wonderful staff. I shall be very sad to see it closed.

"Although the new pool will be open all year round I don't believe it is as big as this pool and there won't be the same sociable atmosphere."

Hillary Cox, of Burnham Road, agreed. "It is a wonderful pool," she said. "If there is any other way to save it please let us know."