Following months of repair work in the wake of February’s Storm Eunice damage, Bude Leisure Centre was fully re-opened on Monday, August 8.

The storm ripped off a large section of the roof — affecting the pool hall, studios, gym and changing rooms. The pool has been closed ever since but is now set to welcome customers back throughout the peak summer period and beyond with a programme that includes swim for fitness sessions, swim for all swimming, family fun swims and the return of its Better swim school sessions. There will also be a free swim session from 4pm to 5pm on Friday afternoons from 12-28 August 12 to 28.

“There have been a lot of different contractors working here over the past few months to make the necessary repairs and we’re really pleased the end is now in sight,” said Bude general manager Dale Taylor. “After initial assessment of the damage, customers were told that we were aiming to have the pool reopened by July 18. Unfortunately, that date had to be extended because of delays in getting materials and some extra work required. That’s been frustrating for everyone concerned and we’d like to say a big thank you to our customers for sticking with us.

“Our gym and studios had to be closed for another two-week period in July to complete all the repairs in that area and, to cover that time, we re-introduced virtual classes in dance cardio, Jamaican dance, Pilates, power step, Salsa, yoga and Zumba. Whilst work has been going on, our aim has been to minimise disruption as much as possible and I think we’ve managed that well.

“I know I speak for all my team when I say we are really looking forward to offering swimming activities again.”

GLL is a not-for-profit social enterprise that runs Better leisure centres on behalf of Cornwall Council. For more information, visit www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/cornwall