Castle Douglas Swimming Pool to celebrate 50th anniversary

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Swimmers can make a bargain splash in Castle Douglas tomorrow.April 1 marks 50 years since the town’s swimming pool was opened.And to mark the occasion, people can enjoy a session for just 50p.A council spokesman said: “We are delighted to be celebrating the anniversary of the swimming pool at Castle Douglas which has been at the heart of the community for 50 years.“Since lockdown restrictions eased, we’ve seen more and more of our customers returning to the pool.“We’re pleased so many people are using the facilities at Castle Douglas, and the other swimming pools in the Dumfries and Galloway area which we operate, to help their health and wellbeing – a vital component in our area’s recovery from the pandemic.”The pool was built at a cost of £32,000 in the Territorial Army Drill Hall.It was opened by Provost D K Whitelaw on April 1, 1972 – the same year US swimmer Mark Spitz became the first person to win seven Olympic Gold medals.People were able to enjoy a swim for the princely fee of 20p – but only the bravest would dare take the plunge as it was only heated to 24 degrees, rather than the current operating temperature of 30 degrees.In the past 50 years, the pool has been the starting point for many aspiring champions and beginners alike through its learn to swim programme and Stewartry Seals Swimming Club.It has also been the focus for fun family swimming and for those who enjoy swimming as part of their daily fitness routines.The pool team is keen to hear from anyone in the local community who has any memorabilia that tells the stories and history of the pool, its role in the town and of the people who have used it.Stories and photographs can be emailed to CDpool@dumgal.gov.uk.