Funds needed to finish pool by end of year

Great strides have been made in recent months towards completion of the building, which lies in the grounds of St Anne's School.

Waterproofing of the roof is now in progress and the next stage is the installation of the actual pool structure.

The Swim 'n' Gym project will create a 25m three-lane heated pool and a gym with at least six pieces of equipment in it.

Tireless fundraising, generous donations of cash, equipment and labour and a States pledge for £250,000 has already seen the total amount of money raised for the project top £585,000.

'To reach completion this year, we need another £100,000 which must come from ongoing fundraising, but especially from a number of outstanding pledges,' said trustee chairman Kerry Wedd.

'Clearly, if these pledges are not forthcoming we will have to review the situation.

'We aim to get as far as we can by Alderney Week and then hold another open morning to allow sponsors and visitors to speak with trustees and inspect the emerging facility.'

The project also needs the

Alderney States to release the last of the funds it has promised to the project.

Mr Wedd said the Alderney Community Sports Centre has to collect further information from its off-island swimming pool specialists that the States has said it requires to release the remaining balance of the pledged £250,000.

'The building team remains confident that everything is in order so, hopefully, there will be no further hold-ups,' said Mr Wedd.

'Meanwhile, our team is battling onwards and we are very grateful for the good wishes and donations which keep coming in. The eventual facility will be worth the long wait.'

For further information, contact 824349.