Volunteers take the plunge at the Trinkie
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Swimmers are enjoying making a splash again at the Trinkie, one of Wick's outdoor pools, thanks to a major refurbishment programme.
The natural sea water pool on the Pulteney side of the town proving popular once again with both locals and visitors since having a revamp.
For years, the Trinkie was well used as a place for locals to meet during the summer and enjoy a dip as well as picnics on the rocks. Many people learned to swim there before an indoor public pool was established in the town.
A new committee, the Trinkie Heritage Preservation Group, was formed in 2018 to try and save the facility from further deterioration caused by storms.
Pointing out that it had been a long journey to get the pool back up and running, secretary Catherine Patterson explained: "Over several years, storm damage and constant exposure to the elements resulted in significant damage to the main retaining wall.
"The dedicated committee liaised with the Crown Estate and potential funders to raise funds for the refurbishment. The Caithness Beatrice Community Fund awarded a grant to commission a structural report to investigate the damage.
"After many delays, including Covid, the Caithness Beatrice Community Fund awarded a grant of nearly £20k to enable the repair to take place."
She continued: "In late summer after the structural repair had been completed the committee began work in earnest to clean, scrape seaweed, power-wash and paint the Trinkie with the help of some willing volunteers. There were several obstacles to overcome including issues with the valve and high tides hampering painting.
"However, although the Trinkie is now looking much better, more improvements will be undertaken next spring which will possibly require further investment. Nevertheless, everyone is very positive with the results and many locals and tourists are once again making use of this wonderful facility."
The secretary added that the committee were indebted to those who loaned equipment, the North Highland College welding apprentices for making eyelets for the rope handrail and Caithness Creels for the donation of safety rope which is yet to be installed.
Many willing volunteers, including swimmers from the North Baths, the town's other open air pool, helped with mixing the whitewash and painting, and John Harrold made an emergency repair to the valve.
Wick Gala and Pulteney Distillery have both made donations of £1000 towards maintenance and future works while individuals have pledged donations following personal fundraising endeavours.
More information about the work being carried out at the outdoor pool can be found on the updated Facebook page – Trinkie Heritage Preservation Group.
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