A SPECIAL exhibition is being staged to mark the centenary of Renfrew’s Victory Baths.

Visitors will get the chance to see and hear about the history of the swimming pool, which was officially opened on September 19, 1921 and is now run by the charity Renfrewshire Leisure.

The baths were gifted to the town by shipbuilder and government minister, Sir Frederick Lobnitz who, along with his wife, Lady Lobnitz and Lady Blythswood conducted the opening ceremony watched by crowds of locals.

Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, chair of Renfrewshire Leisure said: “The Victory Baths is an iconic building in Renfrew and has been part of the lives of people from the town for generations.

“It has a great history with many stories connected to the swimming pool and the people who swam there. I know the exhibition showing the history of the Baths will be of great interest to people of all ages.”

She continued: “We are delighted to be celebrating the centenary of the Victory Baths, which have been at the heart of the community for 100 years. Renfrewshire Council has recently invested around £100,000 in the essential plant that supports the swimming pool, and we have invested in new internal and external lighting and interior decoration so that the Baths are looking their best for their big birthday.

“Swimming is as popular now as it’s ever been, not just at the Victory Baths, but across all of the pools run by Renfrewshire Leisure.

“Its popularity has increased since lockdown restrictions eased, which has been great to see as we work with people to help with their health and wellbeing, which is so important to our region’s recovery from the pandemic.”

The exhibition opens on Sunday, September 19 and apart from the public holiday on September 24, runs every day until Sunday, September 26.

People interested in seeing the exhibition at the pool can book a tour on weekdays at 10.30am, 1.30pm and 7.30pm as well as during the weekend at 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.30pm.

To book a place on the exhibition tour call 0141 618 4914.