NEWS that Tenbury Swimming Pool could be going down the drain if urgent repairs are not carried out, has brought a swift response from councillors.

A rescue package to prevent the facility's closure is being prepared by officers from Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC).

Two weeks ago, the Tenbury Advertiser reported that a lack of cash to fund the vital work was threatening the pool's long-term future.

Pushing hard for a swift response, Tenbury's district councillors George Price (Independent) and Reg Farmer (Conservative), have set their political differences aside and called on the council to support the popular facility.

In a meeting last week, MHDC's Executive Committee agreed to tackle urgent repairs using cash, expected to total £60,000 from its reserves.

The decision is due to be put to the next meeting of the full council for approval.

Coun Price said: "For some time I have been calling for more investment into Tenbury Swimming Pool.

"A new fitness suite has been added but we need to upgrade facilities to the standards at other pools in the district.

"We must also consider health and safety requirements. The time has come for us to work together to seriously consider the future of the pool."

Although the pool is owned by the Tenbury Swimming Guild, the district council provides funding for day-to-day management.

Essential works include water leaks and poor water quality in the main tanks, better heating for the showers, and new tiling for the pool floor to prevent a further increase in cuts and scrapes.

Once estimates and timings for the repairs have finally been agreed, a lengthy shutdown will be inevitable.

Coun Farmer said: "Tenbury pool is a vital community asset and needs to know it has a future to look forward to.

"At the executive committee meeting Coun Price and myself worked together to get the £60,000 needed as quickly as possible and, thankfully, the committee supported us.

"The reserve fund is there and we now wait the agreement of the full council."