With the current heatwave showing no signs of relenting, people of Gloucestershire are visiting Cheltenham’s Sandford Parks Lido in record numbers.

The outdoor pool, one of the largest in the country, has become the number one attraction for Gloucestershire residents looking to cool down and enjoy a swim as temperatures soar. Cathryn Fry, the lido’s Social Media and Communications Manager, says the prolonged hot weather has meant visitor numbers have skyrocketed. She said: “During the heatwave, we have been averaging between 1,500 – 2,000 visitors a day. We can only have 1,600 on site at any time so we’ve been keeping a check on our people counter!

“This summer has been very busy due to the unusually hot weather Britain is experiencing. The Lido regulars who have been coming here for more than 50 years say that back in the 1970s and 1980s every summer was like this!

“During periods of intense sunshine there’s simply no quiet time. Normally I would suggest coming between 11 – 3 but in this weather, that goes out the window.”

With temperatures in the high twenties Cathryn says it’s imperative that swimmers bring plenty of liquid refreshments and the all-important sunscreen. Cathryn continued: “I would advise our visitors to come equipped with adequate water, sun protection, a sun hat and sun glasses. I say water as although we try to get the queue moving as quickly as possible, it can sometimes take a while to get in so please be mindful of the heat. Inside we have the Sandford Parks Lido Cafe which has something for everyone.”

As well as offering visitors the perfect opportunity to cool down during this heatwave, the lido also hosts a number of competitive sporting events during the year. The British Water Polo Championships were recently held in the Olympic-size pool, and this weekend leading junior athletes will take part in an aquathlon – a swim followed by a run around Sandford Park. Entrants aged 8-16 will compete in the event, which gets underway at 8am. Cathryn added: “We have 141 competitors signed up which is great. We have children travelling from all over, but the majority are from Gloucestershire. It promises to be a great event.”

Money raised from the event will be given to the Pied Piper Appeal, a Gloucestershire charity that works with sick and disabled children.