LEISURE chiefs say they have been “overwhelmed” by the community’s response after Galashiels Swimming Pool was vandalised.

On Monday the Border Telegraph reported that an external window at the Livingstone Place facility was smashed – forcing it to close.

The pool had to be drained to remove the broken glass.

And bosses at Live Borders have told how locals have stepped in to lend a hand.

Facilities manager Ben Lamb said: “We’d like to thank the local community for all their messages of support.

“We’ve had so many people offering their help, the support of the local community has been overwhelming. 

“Not only have our customers been visiting and phoning the pool but one member even assisted by providing joinery services to board up the vandalised window. 

 “We had six members of staff in the emptied pool to conduct a comprehensive clean-up.  A substantial amount of glass was removed by the team.

 “The refill has now commenced. Once the water in the pool reaches a certain level, the filtration can begin.

“Unfortunately, an exact time-scale can’t be provided at the moment as there are a number of factors involved in this process. 

“We hope to be able to provide an update on re-opening as soon as possible.”

The pool will remain closed over the weekend as the refill progresses and an update is hoped to be provided soon.

Selkirk Swimming Pool has extended its opening hours to help accommodate swimmers.

And users with a swim membership can still use other public pools as part of their membership.