AS the temperature soared Mid Devon District Council (MDDC) announced on Facebook on Monday, September 6 that the paddling pools at Newcombes Meadow in Crediton and Westexe Park in Tiverton “have now closed and are being drained for the end of the summer season.”

The sudden announcement left many parents angry and many children disappointed and upset.

Emma Wyer of Crediton’s response to the comment was: “Blimey, you don’t waste any time! Summer holidays have literally finished today, and no-one can use the pools in the sunshine tomorrow.

“Under 5’s through the daytime, primary aged children after school, both would have loved it.

“Come on MDDC, another week or two wouldn’t have done any harm.”

Crediton mother, Laura Tucker said: “Such a shame that MDDC couldn’t have taken a call based on the weather/not all children are back at school - I’m sure resourcing could have been worked around to leave them for a couple of days.

“I have one very disappointed school starter who chose Newcombes splash pool for his special last day before school starts.”

Beverley Cridland asked: “Why didn’t the council consider putting out a help request for volunteers to keep the pools clean and tidy…or did I miss it this year?

“Surely there are enough persons who would step forward to help if a rota was set up?

“I don’t have young children but I would have been prepared to do my bit as a local."

A spokesman for MDDC told the “Courier”: “The Council routinely close the pools in early September which is stated on signage at the entrance to both pools. It is unfortunate that the nice weather decided to return as we closed, however prior arrangements had been made – the operators who volunteer to keep the pool safe for use had been stood down.

“We apologise that clear messaging announcing the closure was not released in advance.

“We are taking on-board everyone’s comments and look to improve for next year’s season.”