BATHURST Pool in Lydney has been given a boost – by synthetic grass.

Nearly 70 square metres of the material has been laid poolside, making the environment more relaxing for swimmers and other visitors.

The work was recommended for an Active Together grant of ?3,500 from Gloucestershire County Council by Councillor Alan Preest (UKIP, Lydney) and the Friends of Bathurst Pool contributed ?2,000.

The leader of Gloucestershire County Council, Cllr Mark Hawthorne, also visited the pool to see the work carried out with the help of the grant.

Bob Berryman of the Friends of Bathurst Pool said the new surface had greatly improved the area at the open-air pool.

He said: “It used to be concrete which didn’t look very nice and wasn’t very comfortable to sit on.

“People love sitting on the grass – it is very comfortable and warm.

“It’s also good for us because it is very low maintenance apart from having to put the vacuum cleaner over it.

“We’re very grateful for the grant which has enabled us to get the work done.”

Cllr Preest said he still had more than £5,000 in Active Together grants to give to organisations in his area which includes the whole of Lydney and Aylburton.

He said: “I was very pleased to be able to help the Friends of Bathurst Pool get this Active Together grant.

“I still have more than £5,000 for projects which help people stay active and healthy and I would welcome applications.”