OVER £7,000 has been raised to help preserve a ‘sparkling jewel in the Eden Valley’ for future generations.  

It follows after an appeal was launched to raise around £22,000 to help refurbish the Lazonby outdoor swimming pool which has been around since 1964.

Appeal organisers and pool’s directors, Dave Farrington and his wife Ann, explained that the upgrades include stripping out the current pool lining, repairing the pool surface, and installing a modern surface filter system ahead of the new season in April.

“It’s phenomenally important in the area," Dave said.

Family enjoying the pool which was created in 1964. Family enjoying the pool which was created in 1964. (Image: Supplied)

"It’s such an unusual thing to have in the village, the location right next to the river is very scenic, like a jewel sparkling in the Eden Valley. 

“It’s used by many of the surrounding villages too, people from Armathwaite come in from the train to use it and people come from far afield. In the community, it fills a very beneficial purpose with all age ranges being catered for,” he said

The pool, alongside its toddler pool, caters to five local schools with swimming lessons and hosts a variety of clubs and groups, from scouts and church groups to adult water polo and fitness sessions.

Dave and Ann hope to preserve the pool for future generationsDave and Ann hope to preserve the pool for future generations (Image: Supplied)

A Facebook post from a Lazonby resident highlighted the deep local ties to the pool, as they wrote: "My old Dad helped dig it out, as did many of the firemen, mams, and dads. Precious memories."

“We want to make sure the work we do now will last for years to come,” Dave said.

The village’s longstanding bakery firm, Bells of Lazonby which was founded in 1946, has already contributed £5,000 to the Crowdfunder page.

“It is such a big thing for a small village to have such a successful business in it like Bells.  

“They have always had a long connection with it, the original Bells founder used to come at 6.30 in the morning to swim. They are very keen to keep it going.

“We are very pleased they were able to do that,” Dave said.

To donate to the fundraiser, you can visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/helpfixlazonbypool