COUNCIL bosses have expressed their delight over securing the future of Stourport's paddling pool.

Wyre Forest District Council is transferring responsibility for the management of the paddling pool to Stourport Town Council as part of its Localism initiative.

The agreement sees the district council give the town council a one-off £2,000 lump sum, plus funding to full cover the pool's maintenance in the first year and 50 per cent of running costs in the second year.

Councillor Marcus Hart, Wyre Forest District Council leader and cabinet member for localism, said: "I am delighted Stourport Town Council has decided to take over responsibility for the town's paddling pool.

"It is another example of how we are working closely to give local communities greater control over services in their area and the freedom to tailor them to meet local needs.

"Localism in Wyre Forest is allowing us to work in partnership with town councils and local organisations to protect non essential services during the current difficult financial climate."

Councillor Ken Henderson, the Mayor of Stourport, added: "This is another good example of the localism agenda.

"The saving of the paddling pool is good for the town, the children of the town and visitors.

"I am hoping that further funding will come our way in the coming years for improvements to the feature."

The district council has already successfully transferred St George's paddling pool to Kidderminster Town Council, and is also hoping to find a local organisation willing to take on responsibility for the paddling pool in Riverside North Park, in Bewdley.