School's burst pool drains dry

Pupils and teachers at Elm Grove County First School, Worthing, watched in amazement as water poured through the split lining into the school grounds.

Head teacher Pauline Warren said: "It was quite frightening, although the children didn't think so.

"They thought it was great fun, especially when the fire brigade turned up."

The drama could spell the end for the outdoor pool, maintenance costs of which have been spiralling in recent years. Parents and teachers are launching a massive fundraising drive for a new pool later this month.

The old pool finally gave up the ghost at 11am yesterday as it was being checked over ready for swimming lessons to start later this term.

As the maintenance manager tested the lining it split and water rushed out.

Staff called the fire brigade but by the time they arrived the pool was dry.

School secretary Helen Beretta said: "The pool lining was so corroded it just split. The water shot out all over the place."

The 25-year-old pool was already in danger of being closed before yesterday's incident but staff had hoped they could get one more year's use out of it.

The heated outdoor pool urgently needs to be replaced at a cost of more than £150,000.

Mrs Warren said: "It is decision time. We would love to keep the pool if we can as it is one of the only open-air school pools left and it is one of the reasons parents send their children to the school."

The pool costs at least £3,500 a year to run, excluding repairs, which are becoming increasingly costly.

The school estimates the cost of a new outdoor pool will be £150,000.

A bid for National Lottery funding has failed and West Sussex County Council has declined to help.

Mrs Warren said the school had managed to raise £7,000 since July towards a new pool and there was a possibility of borrowing money.

The pool is used by community groups during the summer holidays.

A public meeting will be held at the school on May 22 to launch a major fund-raising drive to replace the pool.