MEMBERS of a fitness group marked the 35th anniversary of Guisborough swimming pool by presenting staff with a This is Your Life big red book.

Guisborough Aquafit Group was formed two years ago, but many of its members have used the pool since it opened.

Quita Owen, who handed over the book chronicling the history of the pool, said: "We wanted it to be a little bit special and so decided on the big red book treatment: Guisborough Pool - This is your Life.

"Some of us - the real Guisborians - could remember the collections held in the town for the pool to be built and have been coming to it since it opened. But those of us who moved here after 1968 didn't know much about how it started, so it was interesting as well as fun to do."

Their research uncovered a few surprises; for instance, how many swimming pools have a hamster cage in their lost property?

The book ends with a section in which people relate their own stories and memories of the pool.

"We thoroughly enjoyed doing it and fortunately the staff seem to have enjoyed the end result," said Mrs Owen.

"They are a very dedicated group of people and we really appreciate all they do for us. This seemed an ideal opportunity to thank them, which was the reason behind it all."

Centre manager John Dobson said: "The time and effort put into making the book shows the loyalty of our customers at Guisborough swimming pool and clearly reflects the fact that they see the pool and the staff who work there as an important part of their community.

"Tees Valley Leisure would like to say a big thank you to our customers, particularly Quita, for their warm wishes and continued support."