Dirk Kuyt Backs Campaign To Save Woolton Baths

Liverpool FC star Dirk Kuyt has joined the campaign to save a closure-threatened swimming pool.

Kuyt, who lives near Woolton baths, met up with former Brookside actor Simon O’Brien and primary school pupils Jake Sullivan and Elian McClements to show his support.

Jake, 10, and Elian, nine, who have used the baths since they were five, collected a 2,000-signature petition to present to councillors at Liverpool town hall.

Woolton baths closed in October for “health and safety reasons” and residents fear they may never reopen.

Kuyt, who signed autographs for the boys after adding his name to the petition, said: “I’ve lived in the area for a few years now and I’m pleased to support something important to the community.”

Speaking after the meeting, big Reds fan Elian said: “It was the best day of my life. I was a bit starstuck. It is amazing that Dirk Kuyt is getting involved.”

Jake, an Evertonian, was not quite so excited, but said: “It is good that he is supporting our campaign. Hopefully it will all get sorted soon.”

Jake’s mum Sam spoke of her pride at the pair’s dedication to the cause.

She said: “They were really pleased to get Dirk’s support. They have put a lot of effort into this and it means a lot to them.

“It is great that a local celebrity like Dirk Kuyt is getting behind the campaign.”

Meanwhile, Simon revealed that council leader Cllr Joe Anderson has agreed to meet him to discuss possible plans for keeping the baths open.

He said: “I have been doing a lot of research and found out that two pools, one in Kirkham and one in Chester, operate schemes which could suit our project.

“It would involve a joint project between the community and the council.

“I will be meeting council officers to discuss ways we can regenerate the baths so they can stand on their own two feet, and I have just received an invite from Cllr Anderson for a meeting as well.

“The fact 77,000 people use the baths each year means there is a lot of potential and people really do care.

“Having Dirk here was great. He understands that places like this are unique and important to the people who live here.

“I’d like to thank him for coming down and getting involved.”