A popular seaside hotspot has reopened for the first time in more than six months.

The paddling pool in Sheerness, which closes during winter months, was last used on September 18 last year.

It been an Island favourite for a number of years because it is free and you don't need to book.

Sheppey Leisure Complex has announced the pool, at Beachfields, has been jet-washed and painted in recent weeks, and councillor for the Sheerness ward, Angela Harrison, said it should be a long-term presence on the Sheppey coast.

Speaking ahead of the opening weekend the Labour representative said: “The paddling pool will be a great success again because it is so popular.

“Even if a summer isn't brilliant, it is always busy so I'm sure that will be the case this weekend and beyond.

"I've been hoping for a while that it would open again - the play area too is always a success, too.

"The whole site is compact and safe for kids, well-used and obviously free, and of course opening in April doesn't often happen for the pool.

"It should be a long-term part of the promenade given how happy it makes the children there, but also because it's been gradually done up over the years."

Last year the family favourite was hit by the national chlorine shortage and problems with the power supply.

More information on the pool is available here.

Run by Swale Community Leisure, it has been labelled as a "great community asset" by the complex, with residents also showing their excitement this week on the site's Facebook page.

Brodie Hallett, said: "I love that it's still open as I used to visit as kid, and now I take mine, too."

Fellow local Dolly Jean White added: "This is good news - it is a well-loved part of Sheerness."