ATHERTON Swimming Club has hosted its final gala at the town's doomed pool.

More than 20 members of the club took on Chadderton SC in a Central Lancashire Intermediate League fixture which they lost.

The swimming baths will close at the end of the month after 102 years.

Secretary Lev Baddley, said: "Unfortunately Atherton lost the gala but there was a terrific atmosphere with the swimmers and spectators almost raising the roof on a number of occasions."

The last session at the Mayfield Street baths is on March 31, and the club is inviting past members to join them for a final swim or just to reminisce before the doors close for good the following day. The club will move to Tyldesley baths on April 4, where training times will be Tuesday from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and Wednesday from 7.30pm to 10pm.