SWIMMERS will get to splash about in an outdoor oasis for longer than usual this summer - without getting goosebumps - as it steps up to meet demand.

Abbey Meadow pool in Abingdon, which opened for the season on Saturday, is expected to get an influx of custom while two other of the town's pools are closed for a fix-up.

The much-loved facility will adopt extended opening times and a warmer temperature during works costing £415,623 at White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre.

Peter Harbour, a member of Friends of Abbey Meadow Outdoor Pool which campaigns to improve the facility, was positive about the changes by owners Vale of White Horse District Council.

He said: "The temperature is already up and they have painted the whole of the inside of the pool. They are really working hard to understand queue control. The opening times are absolutely fantastic, it's really important to get people to come at that time."

He said attendance has boomed 70 per cent over four years to more than 10,000 a season; set to increase in July as the weekday opening times will lengthen to almost 14 hours.

Swimmer and Friends member Joan Damerell, who lives in Godfrey Close, said: "The water is warm and clear, and it's in a lovely riverside setting and it's well-run. It's great for all the family. We are still working with the council to try to persuade them to install a beach area and showers as showcased at Hinksey Outdoor Pool in Oxford."

A temporary marquee with seating will be available in Abbey Meadow to accommodate the increased numbers and the café will be open for refreshments and snacks.

Nick Bell (pictured) was among the first to use the pool when it opened on Saturday, with his sons Freddie, seven, and Alex, nine.

The council has moved all swimming lessons at the leisure centre to Abbey Meadow during the work, which begins on July 4 and is expected to be completed in September.

Marc Freeman, who manages the pool, confirmed that the temperature had been increased from last year and said he hoped to keep it warm.

He said the inside had been jet-washed and repainted for a fresher look.

The pool is open daily from 9am until 6pm until July 4, when it will open from 6.30am-8pm on weekdays, 8am-6pm on a Saturday and 9am-6pm on a Sunday.

Earlier this month the district council announced £615,000 plans to revamp Abbey Meadow, pledging to transform the pool building, toilets and changing rooms but not the pool itself.