New paint blamed for bumps at pool

Holidaying children have been left covered in bumps and bruises after spending sunny days at an Angus paddling pool, it has emerged.

Dozens of minor injuries were reported to first aiders by visiting families at the West Links in Arbroath, which has enjoyed some of the east coast’s best weather over the past two days.

As part of efforts to spruce up the beachfront, Angus Council maintenance workers put a fresh coat of blue on the pool. However, families have been reminded not to run the risk of slipping and falling as the paint beds in.

Parents took to social media to report their bumps and near-misses.

Sharon Thomson said: “Had a great day down at beach but was honestly shocked at how slippy that paddling pool is.

“Was there for hours and must have seen over 15 kids all ages slip bang their heads, elbows, backs etc.”

Carol-ann Barr wrote: “Wee boy passed me with his mum, blood everywhere, off to first aid area.

“Also seen a wee one slip, luckily just missed banging her head on stairs... but good to see so many families around the pool and park today.”

Ann Woods commented: “It’s been like that for years. They need to get it coated with something. Paint is meant to be non-slip but obviously isn’t. “It was better before they painted it.” Margaret Burgess said: “They put good grip on it last time and everyone complained because the kids were getting grazed. I guess they can’t win really.”

And Larissa Anderson added: “Folk had so much to say last year when their children had grazed skin and now it’s because they slip.

“Council always getting stick... if you don’t want your child to slip get them some non-slip water shoes.”

The council said it cannot eliminate the chance of slipping entirely.

Local councillor Derek Wann said he had raised the matter with council officers.

An Angus Council spokeswoman said: “The pool at Arbroath seafront is painted every year and a special rubberised anti-slip coating is applied.

“Whilst minimising slips and falls, unfortunately we cannot reduce these completely.

“We would like to remind parents to keep a close eye on their children, especially during busy periods.”

There have been reports of slips at the West Links paddling pool in Abroath.