WATCHET'S tidal pool was given a much needed wash and brush-up last Saturday when volunteers undertook a spring clean that has now become an annual event.

The town's conservation society first took on the challenge of emptying out and cleaning the West Street beach pool in 2010 when a lack of care over many years had left it full of boulders and silt.

The first clean-up was a major task but now a smaller spring clean each year means the facility can be used as a children's boating pool during the summer months.

Conservation society spokesman John Irven said, having drained the pool, a local contractor with a mini digger was brought in to remove the larger material washed in over the winter, with volunteers sweeping and brushing the remaining silt and stones clear.

He said the pool was owned by the Wyndham Estate but leased to Watchet Town Council, which had given its permission for the work to be carried out at no cost to the authority.

Molly Quint, chairman of the conservation society, said it was lovely to have the help of so many willing volunteers and a local contractor.

"The pool cleaning is always an enjoyable time and achieves a great end result."

The facility will be put to good use when the conservation society stages a pool fun day on July 13.

The event, from 1pm to 6pm, will feature paper boat making sessions, races for wooden model and sail boats, as well as a host of traditional entertainment from apple bobbing to magnetic fishing.

Mr Irven said: "We encourage families and their children, whether local residents or visitors, to come along and enjoy the free entertainment.

"We hope that families will participate in the races and bring along their own picnics and refreshments to help keep this Watchet beach tradition alive."

Pictured from the left are John Irven, John Elling, Andrew Harrison, Charles Birch, Judy Prior and Molly Quint.

Photo: Steve Guscott