The anticipation had been building for months but the wait was finally over towards the end of 1990 as customers were able to enjoy their first experience of a new swimming complex in Watford.

We have published pictures from our archive of the construction of Watford Springs during the summer, and today we delve back into our files of old images to recall when the public was first able to take a dip in the pools or fly down the flumes.

These snaps were taken on November 13, 1990 and, as you can see by scrolling down this page, it was not the busiest of times when one of our photographers visited.

Watford Observer: Enjoying the ride...Enjoying the ride... (Image: Watford Observer)

However, these images are sure to bring back memories for readers who visited the complex, which closed less than ten years later after it was beset by a catalogue of problems from the outset.

Watford Observer: Having a splashing timeHaving a splashing time (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: There's plenty of room in the poolThere's plenty of room in the pool (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Only a few customers were in the cafe area...Only a few customers were in the cafe area... (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: ...but this man was hungry after taking a dip...but this man was hungry after taking a dip (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: There were also facilities for children to play and be looked after out of the waterThere were also facilities for children to play and be looked after out of the water (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Even the youngest could enjoy themselvesEven the youngest could enjoy themselves (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The trees added a tropical tasteThe trees added a tropical taste (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Relaxing the feetRelaxing the feet (Image: Watford Observer)