BASSIST Dougie Poynter, from pop band McFly, formally opened a new £100,000 swimming pool at his old school.

The ex-pupil of Corringham Primary School, in Herd Lane, Corringham, was joined by Thurrock mayor Charlie Curtis to unveil a commemorative plaque for the new pool, built with money raised from the Parent and Teacher Association.

Michelle Hobbs, former chairman of the association, who helped with fundraising, said: “Dougie learnt how to swim in the old pool, so it is lovely he was involved with the opening.

“The former pool and the building, which was made out of corrugated plastic, was old and condemned, so five years ago the association decided to raise money for a new one.”