DESPITE the rain and cloud 400 people swam, paddled, and dived into the water for the Sturgeon Full Moon Swim at Ilkley Lido on Monday.
The pool and grounds were full of the sounds of laughter and joy - and the occasional scream as they got into the 17.8 degree water.
Full moon swimmers came on their own or with their friends and family from far and wide across West Yorkshire, and for some it was their first time at the Lido.
The event was run by Ilkley Pool and Lido Community Group (IPLCG) as part of a new series of events to help save the pools which have been under threat of closure since Bradford Council began a review of its leisure centres.
Professor Becky Malby is chair of the IPLCG. She said: "There was something special about ‘after hours’ relaxed and communal dipping in the water, as the sun set and the sky turned a moody orange.
"People coming for the first time were surprised by the beauty of the surroundings and the friendliness of everyone taking part from staff to swimmers. We hope they will come back.
"Regular swimmers talked about how vital the pools are for their mental and physical health, a haven for restoration, and a place where people care about each other. As the sun set, glowing beach balls were released onto the water, for a final moment of celebration and fun."
IPLCG is a group of committed Ilkley residents who are developing proposals to secure the long-term future of the site and facilities through partnership with Bradford Council or community ownership of the Pool, Lido and grounds.
They say the Lido is a vital part of West Yorkshire’s heritage, and the Pool and Lido are key to the health and prosperity of the region’s residents and local businesses.
The group is holding a public meeting on Thursday, September 19 at 6pm at Ilkley Grammar School to discuss the likely recommendations from Bradford Council's Review of Leisure Services, including the pool and lido, which will go to consultation in the autumn.
If you can join the meeting register at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ilkley-pool-and-lido-community-group-bradford-council-proposals-for-ilkley-tickets-986745621717
You can find out more about the community group's work to save the pool and lido at https://ilkleypoolandlido.co.uk/
Ilkley Pool and Lido and its cafe and changing rooms are listed by Historic England and the lido will be 90 years old in 2025, the year that Bradford becomes UK City of Culture.
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