Dean makes a splash at pool opening

12:00pm Wednesday 7th May 2008

OLYMPIC hopeful Dean Macey proved he was a good sport when he got a soaking at the opening of a primary school's £70,000 swimming pool.

The 30-year-old decathlete from Canvey, took it all in his stride as pupils from Lincewood Primary School in Laindon, splashed him as they enthusiastically swam around in their revamped pool.

Dean, who is set to compete in this summer's Olympics, was given a warm reception when he arrived at the school yesterday, to meet pupils and staff before officially opening the pool.

He said: "It was great to see the children. I took part in quite a lengthy question and answer session. They asked me some really good questions about the decathlon and what it's like being a professional athlete.

"The pool is amazing and a brilliant asset to the school.

"I've just come back from four weeks intensive training in California. I'm building up for the Olympic qualifiers in about six weeks time, so from now on I'll be eating, breathing and sleeping athletics."

Headteacher Tim Eastwell, said: "Everyone at the school was really excited about Dean's visit, even more so in this Olympic year.

"It's fantastic he is taking time out from a busy training schedule, just a few months before Beijing, and we're delighted and proud he came to see us.

"It rounded off what has been a brilliant project in getting our rather old pool refurbished and really brought up to scratch."

Originally built in 1973 and with a roof added six years later, the pool was in desperate need of modernising.

The £68,000 cost was met through a mixture of the school's own funds and a grant from Essex County Council.

As well as the existing steel structure being updated, pupils will benefit from a new non slip vinyl floor and modern decoration.

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