ORGANISERS behind this summer's opening of Chagford Swimming Pool are hoping people will dip in to support the event, which will mark the 75th anniversary of the popular attraction.

On Saturday, May 23 at 2pm the pool will be open for the season and will provide a welcome facility for swimmers of all ages to enjoy.

The pool, located on the banks of the River Teign, is the largest inland, outdoor pool in Devon. It was built in 1934 on land donated by Sir George Hayter-Hames.

Such is its popularity that it has been mentioned in books such as Wild Swim by Kate Rew (for those who enjoy swimming and dipping in unusual places) and Waterlog by Roger Deakin.

The facility has had funding mainly from Chagford Parish Council as well as West Devon Borough Council.

Twice the pool has had major refurbishment — in the 1980s and again in the last nine years. It is supplied by fresh water and is not heated, but that has not stopped generations of swimmers having a dip.

Richard Thomas, one of the Chagford Swimming Pool committee members, told the Times: 'It's a unique place, somewhere to appeal to all the family and situated in a unique location on the banks of the River Teign.

'Set in the beautiful rolliing hills around Chagford, you could not have a better place for a swim. It is something special.'

He said that one family, going on holiday from London to Penzance, went out of their way to drive to Chagford after hearing about the pool and have a dip before continuing their journey to Cornwall.

They liked it so much they decided to have another dip on their way back home to London a couple of weeks later.

Volunteers are currently refurbishing the pool in preparation for the opening on May 23. It will then be open every day 2pm to 6pm. One hardy breed are the 'Dawn Dippers' who enjoy the occasional 8am plunge.

Mr Thomas and Marion Symes are seeking photographs and pictures of the early day of the pool and its users.

They would like to hear from anyone with any special memories of Chagford Swimming Pool and especially from anyone who was at the opening ceremony. They can contact Richard Thomas at Caldey Cottage, Southcombe Street, Chagford (or call 01647 432403) or Marion Symes at 55, New Street, Chagford (01647 433386).