Three Isle of Wight swimming pools will benefit from investment of nearly £260,000 to improve energy and efficiency and keep running costs down.

The funding is part of the Government’s Swimming Pool Support Fund which has invested £80 million into 442 swimming pools across the country since last year.

The news was welcomed by Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely.

Waterside Pool in Ryde will receive £128,297 to install photo voltaic panels and heat recovery units.

West Wight Sports and Community Centre in Freshwater will receive £86,315 to upgrade its windows to triple glazing and install photo voltaic panels.

The Heights Leisure Centre in Sandown will receive £43,625 to replace fluorescent lighting with LED lighting and fit shower flow restrictors.

Medina Leisure Centre and The Heights received money in the autumn, from the same fund.

Mr Seely said: “I’m delighted the government is supporting three swimming pools on the Island.

“Rising energy costs have put pressure on swimming pool finances. The government recognises this and has stepped in to help.

“These grants will help to improve energy efficiency, which is great for reducing running costs, better for the environment and in the long run will help to keep more of our pools open.”