A DISGUSTED swimmer has slammed "filthy" conditions at a council-owned leisure centre.

The 23-year-old, who asked not to be named, said he was shocked at the state of the changing rooms on recent visits to Clements Hall Leisure Complex in Hawkwell.

The leisure centre, in Clements Hall Way, is managed by Virgin Active on behalf of Rochford District Council.

Bosses at the council are now looking into the problem and say they hope it can be resolved "speedily".

The district council and Virgin hope to make more thorough refurbishments to the changing rooms in the near future.

The man, who is from Rochford and a regular user of the facilities said: "The swimming pool changing rooms are absolutely filthy - it appears thorough cleaning is not done to a timely manner.

"Recently, I noticed a used plaster that had been deposited by the side of the pool. The following day, it was still there.

"The toilets are in a disgusting state and the smell is often obscene. But the majority of staff at the centre are excellent."

He also complained about the spectators' area, where, he said, there appeared to be mould growing on some of the seat frames.

Council spokesman Tamara Burton said: "Surveys and mystery shoppers have shown high user satisfaction so hopefully this was a short-term issue which will speedily be put right.

"The council works with its partners to ensure all its facilities are run to a high standard and when issues are brought to its attention it takes measures to ensure that this continues to be the case. The council works with Virgin Active to resolve any issues."