QUICK action has been taken to remedy a floor problem at the refurbished Romsey Rapids swimming baths and leisure centre.

The facility's grand reopening went ahead with a ceremony last Thursday but the return to action has been marred by problems with people falling over on a slippery floor. One woman suffered a cracked rib and shoulder injury and there were a number of other falls.

But senior Test Valley Borough Councillors were quick to point out that immediately the problem was spotted, it was dealt with.

The Council's deputy leader, Martin Hatley, said it was discovered that a changing room floor was not laid with the exact level to enable water to flow away into the drain, so a member of staff was put on duty there with a sponge. The floor has now been relaid.

Leisure portfolio holder, Caroline Nokes, also explained that the work involved re-tiling three areas and that, although there were enough of the specified tiles for two floors, a different type had to be used for the third floor. Those tiles have now been replaced and the problem has been eliminated.

She added that The Rapids had an excellent safety record and that the improvements had been welcomed, particularly at a time when people had made New Year resolutions and were determined to start the New Year with a new fitness regime.

"Also, the gym side has seen a massive increase in membership and we are feeling very positive about that," she said.

Borough sports and recreation manager Dave Tasker stressed that all the tiles had an extremely high non-slip rating.