RECEPTION class children prepare to take the plunge in Settle Area Swimming Pool which has celebrated its 40th anniversary.

The pool, officially opened on June 22, 1975, was built so all children in the district, as far as possible, could learn to swim.

The pool project was initially promoted by Settle Area Community Council and funds were raised locally together with grants from Settle Rural District Council, The Sports Council and Colthurst Trust.

Pool chairman Trevor Graveson said it was 'great to see so many local schools using the pool' and that the Pool Committee together their sister charity The Friends of Settle Area Swimming Pool are determined to see that the pool continues to play a prominent role for people in the area.

A scheme of commercial sponsorship with 10 local firms supporting the pool will begin shortly, and it is hoped to add 10 more next year.

This will go some way to offset the loss of Craven District Council funding, but the pool committee hopes to persuade the council to reconsider and support what is an essential facility and a huge asset for the community of North Craven.