COLCHESTER Council will conduct independent tests on chemical levels after five children needed medical treatment after swimming at one of its leisure centres.

The youngsters, who are members of Colchester Swimming Club, received poolside medical treatment from lifeguards and coaches after a session in Leisure World’s Fitness Pool.

An ambulance was also called to assist and administered oxygen to two of the swimmers.

All of the children suffer from asthma and some parents have raised concerns about the chemicals used at the pool, which is used several times a week by swimming clubs.

One parent said: “My son has jet black hair but when he goes swimming the ends are turning white like he is an old man when he comes out.

“He washes it a few times and the colour seems to fade.

“It has been happening over the past couple of months.

“I want to see something done before something serious happens.

“Someone needs to look at it and get it sorted.”

Colchester Council said tests were always conducted on the chemical levels in the water at Leisure World, however, it added it was bringing in an independent tester to double check everything was safe.

A spokesman said: “Water quality tests are conducted throughout every day and were undertaken again at the time and PH levels were found to be within normal levels and confirmed safe for swimming.

“Following the tests, the fitness pool was reopened and no further incidents have been reported.

“To ensure the continued safety of our customers, independent tests have been commissioned to validate the processes and results recorded by our qualified technical team.

“The leisure pool is currently closed for maintenance. This situation is not related in anyway.

“We understand those affected have since made a full recovery.”

The leisure pool is closed until next Thursday whilst general maintenance work is conducted.