AFTER more than 20 years of constant use, the outside ride at Meadowlands Leisure Pool in Tavistock is due to be replaced.

The ever-popular water feature has been a major attraction at the pool since its construction in 1989 and conservative estimates indicate that more than half a million people have used the ride in that time.

Cllr Robert Sampson, chair of the borough council's environment and community committee, said: 'During a session it is not unusual for children to have at least ten goes on the ride, so this would mean something around five million rides in its lifetime — little wonder that it is in need of replacement.'

The work is being undertaken by Plymouth specialists Hippo Leisure from tomorrow (Friday) until Friday July 9, when the ride will be out of action.

The pool itself will be open as usual during this period and the new ride will be ready for use on Sunday July 11, in good time for the summer holidays.