THE Blue Pool attraction in Purbeck is set to reopen at the end of this month.

It closed in September, last year, following the death of proprietor Jennifer Barnard, aged 91.

Ms Barnard, whose father bought the former clay pit in 1935, had operated the nature reserve site for about 70 years.

Read more: The Blue Pool closes after owner dies

Now, under new ownership, the popular tourist attraction – whose waters can appear green or turquoise due to suspension of clay particles – will reopen with former manager Carolyn Snook back at the helm.

A statement on Facebook, from the Blue Pool Team, said: "Sadly, the passing of the late owner, Jennifer Barnard, resulted in an inevitable closure, much to the disappointment of locals and tourists alike.

"Poignantly, this closure enforced a period of mourning for this much-loved lady, almost as though the pool itself required a period of mourning to mark her passing.

"Jennifer Barnard dedicated her life to The Blue Pool and surrounding Furzebrook Estate – she had a lifelong passion for this magical place.

"However, The Blue Pool has now thrown off its cloak of solemnity and truly glistens once again.

"Local married couple, Matthew and Julie Jones are now delighted to announce that The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms will be opening on March 29 and that Carolyn Snook will be returning.

"Inevitably, with a new era comes change - but it will be sympathetic."

The Blue Pool forms part of the Furzebrook Estate which traces its history back nearly 400 years.

It is a former clay-pit, dug by hand and abandoned in the early 19th Century, which subsequently filled with rainwater.

The colour phenomenon is caused by light diffracting from minuscule particles of clay suspended in the water.

It is also surrounded by 25 acres of protected heath, woodland and gorse and is also home to a cafe, gift shop and museum.

A collection of teddy, set in dioramas and known as The Wareham Bears, were relocated from The Blue Pool after its closure last year.

Read more: Wareham Bears given new home at Wimborne Model Town

A Blue Poole spokesman said: "Carolyn and the team will welcome you back into the tearooms and gift shop as soon as restrictions allow – but your safety will be of paramount importance to us.

"Normal service will not be resumed until permitted. In the meantime, we will be offering a wonderful selection of hot and cold drinks, locally sourced ice cream, carefully chosen coffees and cream teas, pasties, rolls and much more from our take-away kiosk."