THE New Year begins with a splash at St Austell Leisure Centre with its popular pool reopening today (Thursday, January 2).

GLL, the not-for-profit social enterprise that operates the centre on behalf of Cornwall Council, has invested £75,000 in the upgrade which includes recoating the stainless-steel pool tank to protect it from rust and corrosion and reintroducing splash features to make family swimming even more fun.

The swimming programme has also been enhanced with extended opening hours, more laned and family swimming sessions, additional Aquacise classes and extra swim schools.

General manager, Tristan Knight, said: “More than 900 children from 20 local primary schools are enrolled in the swimming lessons we provide – underlining how important our facility is to our community.

“The investment and refurbishment have made a real difference and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back so they can enjoy a splashing time in 2025.”