WORK to save a Hampshire swimming pool is set to start this summer thanks to campaigners’ efforts.

The outdoor pool at Botley Primary school was closed last summer, after it needed repairs costing £35,000.

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, villagers have since launched a bid to fund the work and guarantee swimming lessons to local children.

After months of fundraising activities, the group has now raised £17,000 which will allow them to start the work.

However, more money is still needed to be raised to ensure that work will be completed and the pool can be reopened by May 2018.

Aimee Cross, 40, businesswoman, from Botley is one of the campaigners.

She said: “We are hoping to have the pool open next summer but we need to raise money this year to have the pool open next year.

“There is a minority of children that won’t have the opportunity to swim at all without having a pool at the school so it’s vital to have the pool open.

“We want to give a chance to everyone to be able to swim.”

The money raised through fundraising activities and donations from businesses will allow to carry out the first essential work.

However, children will not be able to use the pool this summer.

The campaign is run in partnership with Botley Primary School and more fundraising events are planned for this year to ensure the other half of funding needed to complete the work and train staff.

Once campaigner raise the money needed for the repairs, they hope to raise an extra £35,000 to build a roof which will enable children to use the pool every day.

Campaigners have organised a ball on May 20 with more than 200 people expected. A music festival is also planned for July 15 at Kings Bar and restaurant in Botley.