The work of offenders carrying out community service at Broomhill Pool has been recognised as the historic site prepares for restoration if it wins a multi-million lottery grant.

Earlier this month it was confirmed that a lottery bid for the pool’s restoration had won first stage funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund – putting it on course for a £3.3m award early next year.

But for the last seven years the pool and its surrounding area has been maintained by offenders carrying out unpaid work as part of the Community Payback scheme.

This has tidied the site, cleared graffiti, and has ensured the area has not deteriorated.

Now the Broomhill Pool Trust has presented a gift – a glass trophy – to the probation service’s community payback team to mark their work.

Mark Ling from the Broomhill Pool Trust said: “Their work here has been absolutely crucial in maintaining the fabric of the place.

“When you compare what the pool looked like seven years ago when they started and what it looks like today, then there is no comparison.”

Those who have carried out the work should be proud of their role in helping to save the structure, he added.

“Their work here has been absolutely outstanding – not only have they tidied it up, they have also ensured people can see it is cared for and that has cut down on anti-social behaviour.

“And it’s not just the pool itself – they have also done a great deal of work in Broomhill Park which has been of great benefit.”

The trophy was presented to John Wesley and Pauline McGlynn from the probation service by Suffolk High Sheriff Judith Shallow on the steps to the pool entrance.

Community Payback’s work at the pool will continue until work starts on the full restoration of the site by new operators Fusion Lifestyle which could be in early 2017 if there is a positive decision from the Heritage Lottery Fund.