VILLAGERS are aiming to carry out the second major refurbishment of their community open-air swimming pool since it was launched 80 years ago.

The plans for a "splash zone" at Ingleton Pool, which was once filled with water from the nearby river, is expected to cost £150,000.

The scheme has already won planning permission from Craven District Council.

Now, Ingleton Rural Community Association, which manages the facility, has kick-started a series of fundraising events to add to the £12,000 which has already been banked towards the cost.

Jayne Lis, speaking for the IRCA, said: "We are also hoping to encourage local and corporate sponsorship and to get help from other organisations.

"The pool is a very strong tourist attraction. A splash zone will have a learning and countryside theme to attract and entertain younger children and their families. It will have full access for disabled and handicapped children.

"As swimming is a key life skill, the opportunity to play in a safe and fun water play environment will help increase children's water confidence."

The aim was to make the pool a destination for families with younger children and those who were disabled.

The pool was dug out and built by local volunteers in 1933 and took a year to finish and was filled from the river.

A major modernisation was carried out in 1974 when the pool was reduced in size, tiled, heated and the water was treated for the first time. A toddlers' shallow pool was lost as part of the modernisation.

These days, the nearest splash park is 22 miles away.

Donations can be left at Ingleborough Community Centre in Ingleton with cheques made payable to Ingleton Swimming Pool Improvement Fund.