One of Gloucestershire’s premier attractions has two causes for celebration.

2018 has been a hugely busy year for the team at Sandford Parks Lido, one of the largest outdoor swimming pools in the country. After what felt like a never-ending heatwave this summer, visitors to the lido came in record numbers, making it the busiest year in over two decades.

Cathryn Fry, Social Media and Communications Manager at the lido, says the summer sunshine was a real catalyst in increasing customer numbers through the gates.

She said: “The heatwave was unprecedented. According to our long-standing trustees, this was our busiest summer since 1995.

“To cope with demand this year, we employed on site security and recruited more lifeguards from the NPLQ courses that are run here. We also hired additional cleaners. To face so many weeks of intense heat was a new challenge but one that brought rewards.

“We would like to thank every single person who has passed through the gates this season. We really appreciate the support.”

If their busiest season since 1995 wasn’t enough reason to celebrate, then the team at Sandford Parks Lido received an extra boost on Monday evening when they scooped two prizes at The Cheltenham Awards ceremony. The lido triumphed in the Hospitality, Leisure & Tourism category and also lifted the Cheltenham Champions award.

Cathryn continued: “To win one award was amazing but to scoop the two awards was sensational. Everyone involved here is honoured, proud and totally over the moon! It’s a real team effort at Sandford Parks Lido. The team do such a fabulous job.”

The 2018 season is drawing to a close, but there’s one important event that takes place before the pool closes for winter. On Saturday 13th October the main pool will be opened for the now annual ‘Lido Dog Swim’.

Cathryn added: “It’s a great opportunity for anyone with a dog to visit us and give their pet a paddle in the main pool.

“As soon as the gates close after this year’s Dog Swim, we start planning for next season. There will be new events scheduled but they are very much in the embryo stage at the moment. As soon as we can, we will release details. Also, look out for season tickets being on sale a lot earlier for 2019.

“The easiest way for someone to join as a season ticket holder is to go to the shop section of our website and click through to season tickets. We hope to have the 2019 options available very soon.”