MANAGERS at Oxford’s open air swimming pool are splashing out and opening it a month earlier than normal on Friday.

Fusion, which runs the pool for Oxford City Council, said it was responding to public demand and will also open the pool for a month longer at the end of the season in October.

The large heated pool in Hinksey Park, off Abingdon Road, will open its gate at 8am on Friday morning and be open until 5pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

After that, opening times will be dependent on the weather and people should refer to the website for more details.

General manager Richard Taylor said: “This is something we have been considering for a while, but we have had to review very carefully as it is very expensive to heat a large outdoor pool when temperatures are still low.

“However, customer feedback shows that that there should be demand and the last few years have seen some great weather in April, so we decided to take the plunge. Not only will we be opening early, we won’t close until October 31.”

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He said if the extended season proves successful, the company, which runs the pool for Oxford City Council, would make the longer season permanent.

Lake Street resident Debby Forbes said she thought the early opening would prove popular – if the weather is good. Mrs Forbes, who is administrator at South Oxford Community Centre, said: “If it is really nice weather it will be popular.”

Unfortunately, the weather for Friday is currently forecast to be overcast with temperatures peaking at 9C.

This year, pool visitors will also be able to take advantage of a new grass sunbathing and relaxation area.

The office is now open for the sales of season tickets from 9am to 5pm. Season tickets bought before April 12 will be discounted by up to £40.

Adult tickets cost £195 or £175 before April 12; tickets for over-60s and under-17s are £99 or £90 with the discount, and family season tickets for two adults and up to three children are £375 or £335 with the early discount.

For full details go to fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/ Hinksey_Outdoor_Pool