TWO splash pads in Oxfordshire have reopened just in time for so-called 'Freedom Day'.

Following the Government announcement that Covid-19 guidelines around social distancing will be relaxed, Vale of White Horse District Council confirmed that its splash pads in Abingdon and Wantage Memorial Park will be operating again this week.

This comes after consistent calls from residents, particularly those in Abingdon, who until a week ago struggled in the summer heath without an outdoor swimming pool.

Following a prolonged community campaign, eager swimmers were finally welcomed at the facilities at the Abbey Meadow last week, with a special reopening ceremony attended by Emily Smith, leader of the district council.

Leisure contractor GLL, who run the Better UK facilities in the district, postponed the reopening of the pads as they are relatively small, and they felt it would be impossible to implement social distancing while they were in use.

Vale councillor Helen Pighills, cabinet member for healthy communities, said: “I know that residents have been eagerly awaiting the reopening of the splash pads in Abingdon.

"I am so pleased we are able to have them ready before the start of the summer holidays for families to enjoy, especially after such a tough year."

Residents are asked to continue to be considerate to others and be mindful of safety guidelines set by GLL and the council when using the facilities.

The splash pads will be maintained by GLL in Abingdon and by the council's in-house grounds team in Wantage, with increased cleaning processes to ensure that they are safe for everyone to use.

They will be available to use from 9am until 6pm every day until early September.

Vale councillor Andrew Crawford, cabinet member for finance and corporate assets also pointed out how important these facilities are, especially to families in the two towns.

He said: "I am really looking forward to seeing all the families enjoying themselves in Wantage this summer, I know that the splash pad is going to be very popular.

"The council parks team have been working closely with their leisure colleagues and GLL to manage the safety of both staff and our residents in assessing the right time to reopen the splash pads.

"With restrictions lifting from Monday, it feels like the right time for all to be able to enjoy the facility and remain safe at the same time."

Further information about the outdoor facilities at Abbey Meadow outdoor pool and for the splash pads can be found on the Better UK app.