THAMESDOWN Hydrotherapy Pool Association is launching a fresh appeal for donations to repair serious damage to its roof.

In August 2011 the sssociation discovered a serious failure in the ventilation system, but after a successful bid for funds managed to raise more than £100,000 to fit a replacement.

But now it is being forced to make vital structural repairs to the damage done by the faulty system, and needs almost £50,000 for new ceilings and insulation.

Neil Montgomery, association trustee, said this was the last push before the building was secured.

“After the original appeal we have managed to replace the ventilation system, so everything is dry now, but we still need to repair the damage caused,” he said.

“The insulation has got all sodden and has been leaking. It has not been too bad so far but we don’t want to make it any worse.”

About £60,000 was given in donations during the first appeal, with the remainder coming from restricted funds from the Charity Commission.

“The first appeal was very successful,” said Neil.

“We had to get more than £100,000, and we made it. We would like to thank everyone who helped.

“We tried to leave it a year before we got started again, but it has now got to the stage where we have to get it done. If it doesn’t we may have to close down a few of the changing rooms.

“The leaking is inside the ceiling and we do not know the extent of the damage until it is taken down completely. We have got to look at the extent of the damage and put a whole new ceiling up, which would prevent anything like this from happening again. It is quite a big job and would probably take about two weeks.

“As soon as we can be sure of hitting our target we will get on and start the work. I would love it to be within six months, but we do have to be realistic.”

There will be a number of events over the course of the year to help fundraise for the pool, including a male voice choir performing at St Peter’s Church in Eastleaze on St David’s Day, and a quiz night at the Lawn Community Centre at the end of January.

The group also wants to help out with local projects in a bid to reach the target.

“We like to keep our ears to the ground, but there may be some people who can point us in the right directions,” added Neil.

Anyone who wants to donate to the association can call directly on 01793 496002 or email info@thamesdownhydrotherapypool.com.