CAMPAIGNERS working to restore Otley Lido are vowing to push on despite a funding setback.

The Friends of Otley Lido were in the running to win up to £25,000 from the Aviva Community Fund.

But this week the group found out their project was not among those chosen for a major award - though they have received a £500 contribution.

They are continuing to forge ahead, however, with a bid to create a state-of-the-art outdoor pool in Wharfemeadows Park, on the site of the former lido.

And they have given the Wharfedale & Aireborough Observer an exclusive first glimpse of how the new facility could look.

Concept designs commissioned from architects 3xa Design show a facility featuring:

*A 30 metre long pool, accessible to all, heated using renewable energy

*A retractable roof to allow year-round swimming, and a glass front facing the river

*A children's paddling pool, gym, restaurant and other leisure-related activities

*Refurbished accommodation for the bowling green, plus public toilets and a cafe to service the park.

Friends of Otley Lido Chairman Leonie Sharp said: "We are disappointed but we are determined this will not beat us, so we have decided to share the concept designs so that our friends can get a real understanding about what we want to deliver for our community.

"The important thing is that the swimming pool will be a good size at 30 metres and accessible for the community (including local schools, volunteer groups and the elderly) affordable and ready for all."

The group needs to raise about £55,000 to carry out preparatory studies - into areas such as flood risk and environmental impact - and prepare the business plan needed to attract major funding from bodies like the National Lottery.

Leonie added: "We are bringing these concept designs out to the community for their thoughts and contributions, but right now we need to fund this.

"We been working hard all year to deliver a project plan to convince landowners Leeds City Council that they can deliver a leisure centre for the community, by the community.

"Having lost out on the Aviva Community Fund Award, it makes the crowdfunding initiatives vital in making the plan a reality.

"We are determined to make this happen and, as you can see from the concept designs, this would be amazing for Otley.

"We know people are struggling out there but there are businesses and individuals who could support us."

The campaign can be backed at crowdfunder.co.uk/friends-of-otley-lido , while more information is available at otleylido.com .