The operator of North Herts Leisure Centre has apologised about the state of the swimming pool in Letchworth, after a mum raised concerns over the "very visible scum line".

The concerned mum told the Comet: "I complained about a very visible scum line around the whole pool. They told me they were going to be doing a deep clean, but that was weeks ago.

"I went again and I could clearly see a lot of dirt over the bottom of the pool, as well as the scum line around the pool.

"I would not take a bath if my bath looked like that.

"I had my children with me and, I can honestly say, as we were swimming I was thinking if it was safe for our health being in that water.

"I've made the decision, after swimming there my whole life, not to go to that pool anymore.

"I'm really sad. I love to swim, but it really is disgusting there now."

The Comet contacted Everyone Active, which is contracted by North Herts Council to operate the leisure centre.

Contract manager Chris Williams said: "It is extremely important to us that our customers are satisfied with their experience at our leisure centre, and we sincerely apologise for concerns raised about the pool's cleanliness.

"In response, additional deep cleans have been carried out, focusing on the pool tiles and surrounding areas, alongside our regular cleaning schedule.

"We are also actively recruiting more cleaning staff to maintain these high standards, particularly during busy periods.

"We are sorry if customer expectations have not been met on this occasion and will continue to improve the cleanliness of the centre."

Everyone Active took over management of North Herts Leisure Centre from Stevenage Leisure Limited (SLL) in April, after securing a 10-year contract with North Herts Council.

A £750,000 refurbishment at the centre is currently under way, creating additional gym space and introducing new gym equipment.

Everyone Active's contract with the council also includes running Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre, Royston Leisure Centre, Letchworth Lido and Fearnhill Sports Centre.

In 2023, SLL lost contracts with Stevenage Borough Council and Central Bedfordshire Council to Everyone Active.