WITH the spring sunshine finally arriving, Chagford Swimming Pool has opened its doors at the perfect time for those looking to while away a sunny afternoon.

Just down the road from the town centre, the pool is the largest outdoor freshwater pool in the county.

Fed by the River Teign and warmed by brand new solar covers provided by West Devon Borough Council, the pool is complete with sun decks, a children's paddling pool, second-hand books shelf and refreshment kiosk.

Barnaby Dickens, chair of the pool, said: 'We have a number of Okehampton residents who use the pool and I'm sure there are more, not to mention visitors, who would love to pop over for a quiet swim.'

The pool is run entirely by volunteers, with trained lifeguards always on duty.

It is open to everyone from 2pm to 5.45pm from Tuesday to Sunday during term time, and all week through the school summer holidays.

There is a dawn dipper session on Mondays from 8am to 9am, lane swimming from 6pm to 7pm on weekdays, and a special over 50s session from 1pm to 2pm on Fridays.

Tickets on the door are £3.70 for adults, £2 for children aged 5 to 16, free for under 5s and £1.50 for spectators. Season tickets are also available.

The 2013 session runs until mid-September. For more information visit http://www.chagfordpool.co.uk">www.chagfordpool.co.uk