ONCE, it was among York's finest buildings.

But by 1960, the York Public Baths were in a sorry and dilapidated state.

Situated on the banks of the Ouse, years of flooding and neglect began to take their toll.

The first picture, taken in November 1960, shows how perilous getting a swim could be when the river levels were high.

Things weren't much better inside. Council chiefs insisted the baths did not constitute a health danger, but our pictures suggest hygiene was not a top priority in the pool's later days.

By 1968, it was clear the building had a doubtful future. In November, the Evening Press reported that the Parks and Allotments Committee recommended the council closed the facility before new baths were opened in Thanet Road. Antiquated they may have been, but council workers were still defensive when anyone criticised the pool standards.

"St George's Swimming Baths in York serve a useful purpose and certainly offer no health hazard," said R S Bellhouse, city engineer, after an Evening Press reader said visitors were "thoroughly ashamed from the moment we stepped through the door".

Progress took its toll and the baths were shut in January 1972 - because they were structurally unsafe. The cost of demolishing the building by contractor D Boswell was £1,100.

Some 12 years before, cracks had already appeared in the large bath, allowing water to seep out, holding up swimming training.

The baths may have been decrepit, but the land was precious and is now used as a council car park.

Updated: 14:08 Friday, May 24, 2002