A SWIMMING pool has been given a reprieve from closure.

Harrogate Borough Council's cabinet last night voted to spend £80,000 on Starbeck Swimming Baths for emergency repairs, keeping the complex open for the next three years.

The future of the baths, which are 135 years old, had been in doubt, sparking community campaigners to plead for them to remain open.

A public meeting attracted 500 objectors and banner-waving residents gave vent to their feelings outside the baths.

A consultant's report revealed that almost £2m needs spending on the premises to give them a 25-year lifespan.

Earlier, council officials had identified closure as a way of saving money.

But Councillor Pat Jones, cabinet member for leisure, said they had listened to the public outcry.

Councillors would maintain the baths for at least three years.

Meanwhile, the council would help the community seek longer-term funding.

It would also follow up the consultant's recommendation of forming a trust to take over the management of the pool.

Coun Jones told campaigners: "The pool means as much to you as it did to my children.

"We are going to find this money to keep the baths going."