THE community pool in Wiveliscombe has upped its fundraising efforts for the summer in the hope of erecting long-awaited pool house facilities.

The group are yet to be granted planning permission for the development which would include the proposed pool house, an accessible toilet, a communal indoor space and the preservation of the “much-loved” tuck shop.

The total build cost is estimated at £250,000 and fundraising efforts are already underway, alongside applications for grant funding.

Community initiatives to raise the funds include The 1927 Swimming Challenge and the upcoming WiveyPool Swimming Gala which is set to take place on Sunday, August 3.

Launched on June 1, The 1927 Swim Challenge invites swimmers of all ages to complete 1,927 lengths (or variations of 1927) throughout June, July and August.

Participants are securing sponsorships and logging their lengths poolside with donations going via Crowdfunder to help raise £60,000 to kick start the building of the pool house.

The later Swimming Gala in August promises a day of wacky races with “something for everyone”.

A spokesperson for WiveyPool said: “With individual and team races to suit all ages and abilities - from the Width in Armbands/Noodle to the Fast Lane Frontcrawl, there’s something for everyone.”

“Not to be missed is the hilarious Family T-shirt Relay and the always-popular Duck Race (no animals harmed, we promise!) If time permits, the event will end with the thrilling Lifeguard Eliminator.

“Spectators are very welcome, so bring your friends and family for a great time by the pool.”

Kerry Kerr-Peterson Somerset Council conservation officer said Wivey Pool’s planning application failed to give an assessment of any harm that the proposed development might cause to the heritage assets.