A SCHOOL swimming pool has been reopened following a £125,000 refurbishment and a formal blessing.

The newly renovated pool at St Alban’s Sports Centre at Ampleforth in Ryedale was this week reopened following a blessing by Fr John Fairhurst, chaplain at St Martin’s Ampleforth Prep School, before being declared officially open by Deirdre Rowe, associate headteacher at Ampleforth.

The renovation included new pool lining and tiling throughout, improvements to the surrounding viewing area and seating and refreshment facilities in the reception lobby.

The 25m pool is used by pupils from both the Prep School and Ampleforth College for regular lessons and activity sessions and is also open to the public.

It will also be offering a variety of activities including dedicated sessions for ladies-only, as well as early morning open swim sessions.

In August, a qualified trainer assessor will also be offering the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS UK) National Pool Lifeguard Qualification Course (NPLQ with AED), which not only provides a stepping-stone for anyone wishing to start a career in the leisure industry, but also equips people with skills including first aid and CPR.

Jason Brown, centre manager, said: “The recent investment in the sports centre has really enhanced our facilities and provides a more enjoyable experience for all our users.

“We are dedicated to providing the best possible, city-standard facilities and services in a truly unique location and would invite you to come and see what we have to offer.”