A much-loved pool is due to reopen next week following two years of closure due to the pandemic.

Faversham Pools' outdoor paddling pool and rapids have not been open since summer 2019, but will welcome back swimmers on Monday with safety measures in place, in time for the school summer holidays.

The centre's main indoor and outdoor facilities are already running, and are proving extremely popular in the hot weather.

Mick Ellsmore, Chair of Faversham Pools Trustees said: "We know that our customers have appreciated the Covid safety measures we’ve put in place for their protection.

"After consultation with our swimmers, we’re keeping in place most of our existing measures.

"While we know that swimming is an extremely safe activity, we must also play our part at a time of rapidly rising cases. We’re confident that the measures we have in place will provide a safe and welcoming environment for all pool users and staff."

Swimmers will have a choice of two daily sessions, running 9am-2pm and 2.30pm-close.

Capacity will be capped so swimmers will be able to keep their distance from others.

The ticket price will allow free access between all pools, and unlike in recent months, children will be able to swim freely with their families without having to book into a special family session.

For safety reasons, children under the age of 10 must be accompanied in the water by an adult. One adult can supervise up two under 10s.

Pools Development Manager, Marylka Gowlland, said: "Offering two sessions with limited capacity means that we can spread demand, and help swimmers maintain a safe distance from other users. We expect to be busy, so be sure to book your swim in. Sessions are available up to seven days in advance.

"We’re asking our swimmers to continue to follow all the safety measures we have in place.

"We strongly advise our customers to wear a face covering as they move around the pools buildings. And we continue to ask swimmers to arrive ‘pool-ready’ if possible, to avoid queues.

"We’re looking forward to seeing as many people as possible this summer. It’s another unusual season for us – but we hope we’ve got something for everyone, with safety at the centre of our operation."

Swimmers must pre-book all swims and activities through Faversham Pools' website.

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