Merton youngsters will soon be once again enjoying the opportunity to cool off this summer by making a splash in Merton’s free paddling pools.

First to open will be the Interactive Water Play area (Elisabeth Pool) in Wimbledon Park from 13 June to 6 September. The borough’s other pools will be open from 23 July until 6 September.

With many families in Merton tightening their purse strings this year, Merton’s nine paddling pools are free for families and offer a great alternative to the beach right on residents’ doorsteps without the need to spend a single penny.

Merton Council’s cabinet member for environment and leisure services Councillor David Simpson said: ‘At a time when families are feeling the pinch, we are putting the needs of residents first by providing them with great places to have fun and cool down during the hot summer months that are both free and right here on their doorstep in Merton.’

To find your nearest paddling pool, visit http://www.merton.gov.uk/paddlingpools

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Notes to editors:

The paddling pools in Merton are:

Colliers Wood Recreation Ground, South Gardens, SW19 2NT

Joseph Hood Recreation Ground, Martin Way, Morden SM4

King George’s Playing Fields, Tudor Drive, Morden SM4 4PN

Lewis Road Recreation Ground, Lewis Road, Mitcham, CR4

Morden Park, London Road, Morden SM4 4SF

Rowan Road Recreation Ground, Rowan Road, London Sw16 5JF

Sir Joseph Hood Memorial Playing Fields, Marina Avenue, New Malden, Surrey, KT3 6NE

Tamworth Recreation Ground, London Road, Mitcham Sw19 7HT

Wimbledon Park Interactive Water Play Area