It’s splash off at Dartmouth’s much-loved outdoor heated swimming pool.

After months of preparation and fund raising, the treasured community run facility opened its doors for the season on Saturday.

The outdoor pool - a feature at the top of town for some 30 years - is where generations of families have learned to swim.

And some of them were among those who took advantage of the summer sunshine at the weekend to enjoy the fun of open-air swimming and picnic on the outdoor grass area.

The pool’s popularity was further highlighted on Sunday when it was chosen as a venue for three adult baptisms, performed by a leader from the Flavel church.

The 25 metre pool, on the site of Dartmouth Academy along Milton Lane, is open until September 2. Public swimming sessions are now available daily from 10am to 1pm and 2 to 5pm, with early morning swims and adult only evening sessions.

Pool spokesperson Jo Tucker said it was thanks to the hard work of volunteers and donations from St Petrox Trust Lands, the town council and other local organisations that the pool was able to open again this year.

“Dartmouth is very fortunate to have such an amazing place where people of all ages can come and swim and soak up the sunshine close to home,” she said.

Dartmouth Rotarians and naval officers from the Britannia Royal Naval College were among those who helped with manual tasks to get the pool ready for the season.

It is staffed by fully qualified lifeguards, two of whom were put through their RLSS training course held at the indoor pool in order to ensure sufficient qualified cover.

The pool has disabled access steps and pool ladders both ends. There are male and female changing facilities and warm showers.

There is also a small shop selling a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and a small range of swimming accessories. These include swimming nappies for babies, goggles and armbands.

The pool can also provide diving rings, floats and woggles for customers to borrow during their swim.

It is recommend to check opening time before you travel. Please call: 07779935970 or visit the Facebook page Dartmouth Outdoor Pool where up to date details will be available.

The swimming pool is cash only and the correct amount would be appreciated. Adults tickets are £4.50, children 5-16 years £3.70, children under four are free, family tickets are £15 and concessions £4. Private hire is available.

Financial contributions came from St Petrox Trust Lands, Dartmouth Town Council, Devon County Council, Over 60's Rest Room and Dartmouth United Charities. The League of Friends bought a new pool hoover.

Helpers who got the pool decorated and cleaned up in the two weeks before opening included members of Dartmouth Rotary Club, friends of pool chairman David Bond, a team from BRNC, committee members, Roger Tucker and Tim from Dart Gas who gave his time free of charge.

Flyers are available from the Dartmouth Visitor Centre and other venues around the town, as well as at the pool itself.