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DOUBTS have been cast over the future of Cirencester's open air pool after plunging attendances over the last month have left it in financial difficulties.

The pool had a tremendous start to the summer with record breaking temperatures attracting dozens of swimmers daily.

However, when the sunshine dried up at the start of August so did the number of visitors.

Manager of the pool Rhianne Brown said: "I think since the bad weather started people have been doing other things.

"In July it was really good and in fact we were packed out every day from about mid June. Obviously we did do really well then but it has been so expensive to run and we have been running at a loss.

"It costs around £500 a day to break even and we have not been making anything like that."

Another problem for the pool over the summer was when it sprang a mystery leak in late June and a specialist diver was called in to locate the source.

The financial situation has left staff unsure whether or not the outdoor pool will be run next year.

Rhianne added: "There are a few things that have to be done over the winter for maintenance and we have to get the filter completely cleaned out. The last time was 15 years ago and it costs £10,000. We always struggle."

This weekend marks the last time the pool will be open for the summer staff are hosting a barbecue, a raffle and the tuck shop will be selling off all of its goodies at stock price.

George Brazier, chairman of the open air pool, said: "We have had an awful month in August and we are having this barbecue to try and shift all of the stock and raise a bit more cash. Whatever we don't sell will eventually have to be binned."

The barbecue is taking place on Sunday at noon.

9:08am Friday 1st September 2006

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