Flotation displays took place by the Renfrew School Team followed by Prunella Stack leading the diving display from the 10 Metre Highboard, showing grace, ability and charm. The display was full of thrills including Mr. T.J. Mather, the British Empire High Diving Champion, L.G.Marchmont, ex champion, W.G. Stanton, runner up and last previous years champion, and Miss Cicely Cousens, a Coate diver, the National Ladies High Diving Champion.
After triple somersaults and twists, the display rounded off with the grace of the “running swallow.” Thunderous applause greeted the team.
Portobello was to have many claims to fame, including Sir Peter Heatly, the 49/50’s Multi- National Springboard and High diving Champion, International, Empire Champ. Olympic reprentative, who was later to serve on the Olympic Committee.
Miss Eileen Warburton, Portobello’s swimmer with Mrs. Nan Cross gave demonstrations of good swimming style.
OUTCOME: Despite public outcry and bids to save pool - including that of Sean Connery (James Bond fame), and a former lifeguard there! “Porty” was closed, and demolished in 1988. After much debate, the site became a footballers centre with multiple “Five a Side” pitches.
the largest in Europe and could seat 6,000. The crowd were rewarded when the sun shone through bouts of torrential rain. To add to the “showers”, the artificial wave machine was set in motion. This was the first of its kind. There was much laughter as the foam flecked breakers dashed onto the “Beach,” and unsuspecting spectators were christened by the spray!
