ONE of Swindon's most famous faces has added her voice to the campaign to save the Oasis.

Actress and singer Billie Piper, who was born and grew up in the town before hitting the big time, spoke exclusively to the Adver about her treasured memories of the iconic leisure centre.

And she says it would be "heartbreaking" if the Oasis is allowed to close for good.

Billie said: “I have so many amazing childhood memories of time spent at the Oasis – the legendary wave machine (way ahead of the curve!) and going to aerobics classes with my mum – I can’t bear to hear it may never reopen after lockdown. 

“It’s such a crucial part of the Swindon community, providing a place for people of all ages to exercise and have fun and make their own memories. 

“To permanently lose this iconic local landmark would be heartbreaking for the community, some of whom rely on the space for their physical and mental health, and also for the loyal employees who will lose their jobs. 

“I truly hope the local councillors and developers can work together to save it.”

In 1998, Billie – then 15 – became the youngest artist ever to debut at number one in the UK singles chart with Because We Want To. She went on to forge a successful acting career, starring as Rose Tyler in Doctor Who from 2005-13.

The 38-year-old's support for the bid to keep the Oasis alive – backed by the Adver – echoes that of a trio of Olympic swimmers.

This week, Swindon's Jazz Carlin – a double silver medallist at the 2016 Games in Rio – followed Sharron Davies and Rebecca Adlington in recording a video message for the Save The Oasis campaign's social media channels.

In it, the former Tigersharks member said: “For me, growing up, the Oasis was a key part of my childhood and I have so many fond memories of being in that pool and having so much fun. 

“It’s so disappointing to see so many leisure centres and especially swimming pools having to close but if we can all get behind it and support it then I know we can make such a big difference. 

“Hopefully it’s not too long before we’re back in the pool but let’s all get behind it and throw our support for Save The Oasis.”

Oasis operator GLL announced in November the centre would not be reopening after the second lockdown. A cross-party group of councillors is working with landlords Seven Capital – which was granted a 99-year lease by the local authority – to resolve its future.

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson believes the weight of support for the campaign proves how valuable the North Star site is to Swindon.

He said: “The overwhelming support for the Oasis shows both the strength of feeling in our community and the need for urgent progress to set out how our vital, much-loved Oasis can be protected for future generations to enjoy. 

“I will continue to support all efforts to secure the Oasis’s future.”