IF you're one of the thousands who learned to swim in a former Taunton pool, here's your chance to grab a bit of history - and help cheer up some less fortunate people at the same time.

St James Pool has just been demolished to make way for a multi-million pound development.

L. A. Moore, the contractors who flattened the 88-year-old baths, managed to salvage these two timing clocks before reducing the building to rubble.

And if you have happy memories of swimming against the clock, they could be yours.

L. A. Moore, in conjunction with the County Gazette, is looking to sell them off, with the proceeds going towards a Christmas lunch for homeless people in Taunton.

If you want to get your hands on this piece of the town's history, send in a bid - the highest offer will secure the timers.

Trish Schroeder, operations manager at L. A. Moore, said: "We're looking for someone who would like to take possession of these clocks for a nice sum of money to help cheer up the homeless of Taunton at Christmas.

"It's not a great life on the streets and most of them aren't there through their own choice."

Rosie Hather, fundraising officer for Arc, said: "We're thrilled to be benefitting from such a great fundraiser.

"As a local charity with local staff and clients, we all understand how special St James Pool was to residents of Taunton.

"We think it's very special that from its demolition, other local residents of Taunton who are going through a tough time in life can benefit from its memorabilia. Thank you to everyone involved."

The pool has been knocked down ahead of a development of shops, offices, flats, restaurants and a gym on and around Coal Orchard Car Park, with work due to start early next year.

If you fancy owning the timers, e-mail the amount you wish to bid for them to Trish Schroeder at demolition@lamooreltd.co.uk by midnight on Monday, December 17.