Cheltenham lido hosting Christmas Day swim

The festive tradition will see hundreds of people taking the plunge.

Author: Rachael WhitePublished 24th Dec 2023

Sandford Lido in Cheltenham will be opening on Christmas Day inviting people to take a dip in the cold water pool.

Adam McAnoy, Operations Supervisor at the Lido, explains the tradition began in the Second World War when American soldiers completed a cold swim every Christmas day.

He says the tradition has been continuing since then but has increased in popularity in recent years.

Last year around 500 people attended the swim

Adam said "It's really good fun, really high energy lots of people are enjoying themselves.

"The shock of the cold water and the adrenaline rush really brings up everyone's spirts.

"It's a great way to start your Christmas Day."

Swimmers will be jumping in at 11am and gates will open at 10:45am.

The event is free, but people are being asked to donate to the lido if they can.

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