WORK has started on a town centre pool's 60m water flume.

The slide at Splash, in Stockton, will include blacked-out sections to enhance the feeling of speed as well as an in-built timer.

The pool already has a flume for children but the new one will be targeted more towards older swimmers and families.

Steven Chaytor, managing director of Tees Active, which runs the pool, said: "We are thrilled that Splash will soon offer a new and exciting feature for customers. It's excellent news for families throughout the area and even staff can't wait to have a go."

Work is expected to be completed by early November.

In the meantime, Tees Active has organised a competition, with the winner being the first to go down the slide. For more details, visit www. teesactive.co.uk

Both the wave machine and existing flume may face closure during the work. For details, contact Splash on (01642) 527272.