Ideas to boost use of our pool

I read about the "cost" of South Shropshire's Leisure Centres with dismay. I live in Bishop's Castle and swim in our delightful pool at least twice a week.

I am a pensioner and I swim for my health as well as for the enjoyment and social contact I find there.

The thought of losing this facility fills me with alarm, and I know of many others who feel the same.

If the leisure centre here requires a higher subsidy than others, there are reasons. One is that we are a small and remote community. Going to Ludlow to use the pool and fitness suite would not be an option.

Also, the opening hours are too few, especially at weekends.

Thirdly, our centre is known to local people but not to holidaymakers and visitors, which could explain the extra losses in August.

I would wish to see longer opening hours and more assertive marketing of the facilities. Perhaps some special events could be held to encourage new users.

Judith Payne, Bishop's Castle