A SWIMMING pool in York reopens its doors on Monday after a series of repairs and major improvements.

Yearsley Baths - believed to be the only pool of its kind and age still to be operating in the north - shut down on April 10 for the removal and replacement of corroded water pipes.

But City of York Council has taken advantage of the closure to carry out a refurbishment of several facilities and to improve access for disabled and elderly swimmers.

Changes include:

New automatic doors in the reception area

The refurbishment of toilets

A new hoist to help disabled swimmers get in and out of the water

New disabled changing rooms

New access steps into the pool.

Manager Simon Luck said he was delighted with the improvements. "I am sure that our swimmers will agree as soon as they see it," he said.

"We would invite anyone to come and have a look.

"I believe we are the only Edwardian pool of 50 yards still operating in the north of England. Customers love it and staff are proud to be a part of it."

The council said the pool will open at 7am on Monday for the usual early morning lane swimming session, but other activities at Yearsley included Learn To Swim sessions for all ages and abilities, young at heart, waterfun, aquafit, adults only and women's swim sessions.

"Swimming pool timetables can be obtained by phoning 01904 552424 at any time, or by visiting City of York Council's website www.york.gov.uk/leisure. With a YORKcard, a swim costs £2.90 for an adult and £1.85 for a child, and family and loyalty tickets are available at a discount. Children under five swim for free."

Fiona Evans, a founder member of the Yearsley Pool Action Group, today gave a warm welcome to the improvements.

"We think it's an excellent step forward," she said.

"The council has done a good job in co-ordinating a difficult project."

Updated: 12:45 Saturday, May 20, 2006