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19
Jul 2021
'I've missed this so much': Delight as Starbeck Baths finally reopens
There was an emotional return for visitors and staff at Starbeck Baths today, as it finally reopened following the easing of covid restrictions.
The pool, which was built in 1870, had been closed since December 2020 despite the government allowing pools to reopen on April 12.
Harrogate Borough Council, which owns the site, said the delay was due to staffing problems as well as social distancing restrictions.
The Stray Ferret visited this afternoon and spoke to staff as well as local resident Jean Padgett, who has been a regular swimmer at Starbeck Baths for over 40 years.
She described the baths as "small, warm, and ideal", adding:
There were murmurings in Starbeck that Harrogate Borough Council would never reopen the pool.
Ms Padgett added:
Read more:
- Knaresborough and Starbeck pools to reopen this month
- Calls for ‘dangerous’ Starbeck junction to be improved
Sarah Bowyer, who has worked at the baths for 26 years, described today as "emotional".
She said the morning session was well attended and she was expecting to see more familiar faces in the coming days and weeks.
She added:
The baths are used not only for exercise but also for socialising too. Ms Bowyer said it was a lifeline for many residents in Starbeck, particularly older people who live on their own.
Jenny Paish worked at the baths for 30 years before recently retiring. She was helping out today and agreed it was a vital part of the community.
She said:
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