Hardened swimmers braved the elements when two open-air pools were opened this weekend.

Despite the cold weather about 40 people visited Woodstock pool on its first open day, while about 60 people turned out at Chipping Norton.

Woodstock pool manager Barbara Legg said: "We are very pleased. Our first day went really well. It's a heated pool so quite a few people were prepared to come and enjoy swimming outdoors. There were lots of children about in the afternoon. We are hoping for a great summer and expect to be inundated."

"The weather is down this year," Chipping Norton manager Vic Mutch said. "We have not done very well. A few have turned up.

It was much nicer last year. If the sun shines there are queues. We are suffering. You'll have to have a word with God to see if things will get better later this year. Also, people are still on holiday, so you would not expect it to be too busy just yet."

Both pools will be open seven days a week until September 4.

**Both pools still need trained lifeguards. Training courses are to run from May 28 to June 2. The course will cost £140 and participants will sit an examination at the end. Call 01993811785 to find out more.