HOPES are high that Carnforth's swimming pool will re-open within days thanks to the efforts of community volunteers.

The transfer of the town's swimming pool to a new charitable company looks set to be given the seal of approval by Lancashire County Council's Cabinet today (Thursday).

The Kellet Road building is be handed over to Carnforth Community Swimming Pool Ltd "as soon as practical", said a council spokesman.

The 1970s pool closed on New Year's Eve, but Gareth Patterson, secretary of the charitable company, said it is expected to re-open on Monday, January 29.

The company has prepared a business case to keep the pool open, and a new logo has been designed, inspired by artwork drawn by seven-year-old Grace Cook.

The team behind the pool includes local professionals and Carnforth town councillors, who have been busy fundraising and embarking on a programme of improvements to include the pool's appearance and energy efficiency.

The cost of a swim has been reduced to £2.80 for adults (down from £3.90) and £2 for children.

A new large inflatable is to be bought, and a swimathon in March will tie in with the official re-opening and the pool's 40th anniversary. Extra sessions for parents and toddlers are on the cards, as well as for people with mobility problems and dementia. For more, visit www.carnforthpool.org or the Facebook page.

Meanwhile, volunteers in Hornby continue to work towards the re-opening of the village's mothballed pool. Roger Carter, of the Lune Valley Community Society, told the Gazette that the team was dealing with legal and financial details ahead of an asset transfer. This has already been agreed in principle by Lancashire County Council.

Tickets are on sale for a 1950s and '60s fundraising party at Arkholme Village Hall on Saturday, January 27, with rock & roll band The Jetsons. For tickets call 01524-805666 or email lunevalleycs@gmail.com