Summer Pools is a City Council promotion designed to get parents and their children to use the city’s outdoor pools and to promote safe activity around water from a young age.

This summer’s programme includes three events which will tour around the pools. They are aimed at different ages and arranged so that people can pick the date or venue which best suits. Entry to these events is by the normal pool admission cost. “They’re good value,” says Council organiser Tina Sandys. “Last year we had a great response and we’re looking forward to holding this series of parties around the city. Come along and enjoy yourselves.”

The Meet the Muppets parties are mainly for preschoolers. They run 26-29 November from 11am-1pm, at Sockburn Pool (26 Nov), Halswell Pool (27 Nov), Waltham Pool (28 Nov) and at Jellie Park (29 Nov). Featured will be music, Muppet characters and Santa Claus. It is a chance for toddlers and other youngsters to meet, play, dance and learn to be comfortable and safe around water.

The Tip Top Time pool parties are for all ages, with music, giveaways from the sponsor and other entertainment. They are on from 2pm to 4pm at Halswell (21 Dec), Sockburn (22 Dec) and at Waltham (23 Dec). A similar event is scheduled for Jellie Park (20 December, 4-6pm).

The final series is called Twist-’n’ By The Pool, a part of the Council’s Summertimes festival. They have a summer beach theme, with live music by Puree. Again, they are for all ages. Bring a picnic and enjoy the atmosphere. These parties run from 2-4pm, at Waltham (15 Jan), Halswell (16 Jan), Sockburn (17 Jan) and Jellie Park (18 Jan).