IT'S not every day a council leader takes a dip with a giant lobster - but then it was Richmond Pool's 26th birthday.

Councillor John Blackie joined hundreds of youngsters who took advantage of cut-price admission to fun sessions arranged throughout a day of celebration, which also included a bouncy castle in the grounds and games organised by staff who donned fancy dress.

The pool, run by Richmondshire District Council, was opened on May 12, 1976, by the Countess of Dartmouth