SWIMMERS in Oxford can enjoy their first outdoor swim of the season today as the Hinksey Outdoor Pool opens.

The city’s only outdoor heated pool, at Hinksey Park off Abingdon Road, will be open from 9am after a undergoing a major refurbishment programme over the winter. The cafe will also be open.

It now has new changing cubicles, toilet areas, a new pool liner and improved walls and walkways.

The pool had been due to open last month but the opening had to be delayed after last month’s wet weather held up work.

The drainage systems around the pool have also been rebuilt and the storage facilities improved.

Along with all city council-run swimming pools, Hinksey Pool offers free swimming to all under 17s during specified sessions.

The pool will be staying open throughout the summer, until September 30.

For more information, including opening times and prices, call 0844 893 3222 or visit oxford.gov.uk/leisure