A campaign to save a 50-year-old swimming pool has been given a huge boost.

After receiving £15,000 from the Sport England Community Asset Fund, fundraisers at Cecil Road Primary School in Gravesend are more determined than ever to reach their £30,000 target. The fund is dedicated to enhancing local sporting facilities and creating sustainable benefits for communities.

The money raised will eventually be used to fix a roof containing asbestos and upgrade severely outdated facilities.

The school has housed the pool for over half a century. Pupils have had great success at the Gravesham Borough Championships and the school recently signed up to the School Swimming Charter, in partnership with the Amateur Swimming Association.

The charter was set up to help save lives by ensuring children are safe in the water. Campaigners hope that, with adequate funding, lessons for both children and adults can be extended, and encourage people to lead active, healthy lifestyles.

Speaking last December at the launch of the appeal, Cecil Road school’s sport co-ordinator Mark Neville, said: “This is a very important part of our school.

“It’s where all our children learn to swim and it helps them stay fit and healthy, especially as all the local school swimming pools are now closed or are only open half the year.

“These lessons raise water confidence and may one day help to save a life.”

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