OXFORD City Council has come up with two new ideas to save the authority more money.

Council managers, who are trying to recoup more than £5m in next year's budget, want to reduce the temperature of water in city swimming pools to save £20,000 in heating costs.

Meanwhile, the number of hanging baskets and floral displays could be cut back in a bid to save £40,000 leaving the city council no option but to boycott the prestigious annual Britain in Bloom competition, which would save more money.

The Town Hall has suggested charging for public toilets, increasing parking charges and burial fees as a way of generating extra revenue.

But Karen Roberts, chairman of Oxford in Bloom, said: "Oxford is so successful in Britain in Bloom and we have won many times. Oxford is known throughout the country for its floral displays.

"It's great for residents and tourists and brings Oxford alive in the summer. It also gives people pride in their city."

Fellow committee member Wendy White said entering Britain in Bloom provided the incentive for residents to enter Oxford in Bloom.

She added: "We would lose publicity because we have been so successful in recent years.

"It would be appalling because we know people travel miles to see the floral displays."

The idea of reducing temperatures at city pools has also been met with dismay.

Members of the Morning Larks Swimming Club said the plan was a double blow.

For 30 years the club - including many pensioners - has used Peers Sports Centre every Sunday morning because the pool is the warmest in Oxford. But that facility will close in January, another victim of city council cuts, and now the Larks face the prospect of moving to even colder waters.

Club member Pat Ross, 67, of Bowness Avenue, said: "We went to Peers because it was warmer - older people need a warmer temperature.

"I think it will make it very difficult for older swimmers. They won't swim in colder water.

"The pools will only be able to be used by younger people."

A spokesman for the city council said: "The council is at an early stage of considering options.

"No decisions will be taken until February next year when the budget is finalised.

"Where there are suggestions that prove unpalatable to the public we will be able to drive through other efficiency savings, which may be more palatable."

Labour group deputy leader Ed Turner added: "What more can be done to make swimming pools less attractive?

"The hanging baskets and flower beds also mean a lot to people.

"It would be a real shame to see them cut back."