La Vallette pools should never have been left to fall into disrepair

I advise them that the main tourist attractions are the cliff walks, beaches and historic sites such as La Vallette. I explain that the latter is, to my knowledge, the only place in the world that had separate pools built for men, a mixed bathing site, ladies, and children (families). They are amongst the oldest pools, or lidos, in Britain and have been an important part of the physical education for Guernsey children and athletes for many years.

Then shock, horror, I see pictures of the gents and the children's pool that look like bomb sites.

My information is that the States of Guernsey have been negligent in the maintenance of La Vallette for years and that a storm in 2014 completed the destruction.

I cannot imagine what cruise visitors think when they see these dilapidated heritage sites. Many historic pools in Britain have been restored by community action and where more enlightened councils have recognised their worth.

The volunteers and sponsors that are giving their time and money to restore La Vallette to its former glory deserve medals. On the other hand, the States of Guernsey should be ashamed of their part in the destruction of an important part of social and architectural history. They should not only restore La Vallette but could increase its tourist attraction by adding viewing spots, new diving boards and a restaurant above the ladies to take full advantage of the magnificent view of pool, castle, ocean and islands.

They might derive some direction and motivation by reading the book Liquid Assets: The Lidos and Open Air Swimming Pools of Britain, by Janet Smith and published by English Heritage.

STUART GRAY,

32a Hopetoun Terrace,

Shenton Park,

Western Australia 6008

Stu.gray@bigpond.com