A LAST ditch attempt to save Bewdley's paddling pool from the axe has ended in disappointment.

Wyre Forest District Council, the Friends of Riverside North Park and Bewdley Town Council had been trying to reach an agreement which would see the paddling pool in Riverside North Park transferred to the local community as part of the district council's Localism initiative - after it was announced in January that the facility could close.

But, legal complications with the lease means that a deal has not been possible. It was hoped the town council would be able to take on the lease, which would have enabled the friends group to take over the financial operation of the pool.

As it stands, the pool will close from Saturday, April 1.

All three organisations have vowed to continue to work together to bring alternative features and improvements at the popular Riverside North Park.

Mac Chamberlain, chairman of the Friends of Riverside North Park said: "It is, of course, very disappointing.

"Despite the best efforts of all involved it is with regret that a lease agreement could not be reached between WDFC, the town council and the friends group. It is therefore unlikely that the paddling pool will open this summer.

"However, our friends group remains committed to seeking a solution and funding for a replacement water facility and we are currently applying for charity status.

"Once obtained, we would become a recognised, formal entity that would be legally entitled to apply for a lease. It would also put us in a stronger position when applying for major funding.

"We look forward to the continued support of our friends group members in achieving these goals and we remain positive in our outlook and endeavours.

"To this end, we are holding a Fund Day in the park, on Monday, May 1, between 10.30am and 2.30pm."

Nick Farress, BTC town clerk, said: "The town council, WFDC and the friends group have been working hard to come to an agreement to allow the friends group to take over the paddling pool.

"Unfortunately, due to several legal setbacks, this has not been possible.

"However, all three organisations are planning to work closely together to bring new facilities to the park which may involve some kind of water play feature.

"We feel that this would be a better way to focus everyone's enthusiasm and will hopefully result in some improvements and enhancements to this important park for the future."

Councillor Marcus Hart, WFDC leader, added: "We have worked with numerous local organisations over the last few years to protect non-essential services like paddling pools and retain community facilities.

"Localism is not only about sharing responsibility, but giving local communities greater control over services in their area and the freedom to tailor them to meet local needs.

"However, despite a lot of goodwill and hard work from all parties concerned, it has not been possible to reach an agreement in this instance."