THE opening of Barrow's first public baths worthy of the name took place in Abbey Road in 1914.

Abbey Baths then carved a niche in Barrovians' affections that was to last 77 years.

But at 4pm on Sunday, September 29, 1991, the baths closed their doors for the last time.

They were being superseded by the new multi-million pound Park Leisure Centre.

Staff dived in for a last swim, then toasted the beloved old structure at a party before the lights went out.

"It's sad to see the old place go," said lifeguard Rob Barker, who was going to be a shift leader at the new centre. "It's an institution.

"My dad learned to swim here and so did I. But now it's going. It's served its purpose and it would be just a waste of money to try to fix it up."

His lifeguard colleague Denise Gardner said Abbey Baths had been her first job. She had worked there for four years and was going to be gym instructor at the new centre.

Receptionist Carol Agnew said: "We can't offer people the best service by continuing here. But still, it's sad and I'm sure there'll be a lot of looking back at all the funny things that have happened and, of course, talking over happy memories."

Contract manager Phil Cooper said: "The time is right for a change. Swimming has developed and at the leisure centre we can cater for that.

"We'll be able to offer people leisure enjoyment while keeping the serious side by having two pools. I feel sure the centre will be as fully supported as this place has been down through the years."

In April 1992, The Mail was on hand to photograph the end of a Barrow landmark when the boiler house chimney at Abbey Baths was demolished.

It took more than a day to level the chimney, which concealed an older chimney and steel reinforcement. The outer chimney had been built in the 1950s when the baths were extended.

The site was earmarked for the new Barrow Magistrates Court.