Claims that Narberth Swimming Pool is to close have been officially denied this week.

The Observer was contacted on Monday by the town's County Councillor Wynne Evans who said: "There seems to be unfounded rumours in the town that the swimming pool in Narberth is to close shortly.

"From the outset, can I say this is not the case and this possibility has never been discussed."

He continued: "It may stem from the fact that our stalwart and much-loved manager of the pool Mrs. Jenny Price is to retire in October and a meeting has been arranged by the Friends of the Pool to discuss its future.

"The pool is a well-used well-run leisure facility in the town and caters for many user groups. I admit the structure is in dire need of investment and a total new water heating system that would reduce running costs significantly, and with support from others, finance for these two projects must be found. Whether the funding comes from the council or private sector, should those in the council who have to make decisions on the pool ever try to close the pool, they would have to answer to the public outcry.

"When Mrs. Price retires, the management of the pool may go to another leisure centre manager to oversee the operational needs and daily running of the pool, but again the pool is here for a long time yet."

When contacted by the Observer, Pembrokeshire County Council's cabinet member for culture, sport and leisure, Clr. Elwyn Morse, said: "There is no truth in this rumour. It is totally without foundation and I have no idea how it started.

"I am only too pleased to confirm that there are no plans to close the swimming pool in Narberth."