Jim & Ellery taking the first dives of the 2010 season closely watched by Mayor Pauline Searle
As you probably know, FOGL re-formed last season when it was thought (incorrectly) that the Lido might be imminently closed. Since the initial frenetic activity to get FOGL up and running, we were then faced with all the challenges posed by getting a proactive comittee together and then establishing ways of working together both as a cohesive committee and with the outside decision makers during the closed season. Despite a very small committee, who largely all have demanding, full-time jobs and their own personal challenges, through voluntary efforts put in over the closed season, we have identified the following continuation of good things, changes, improvements or new developments that are in place this season, all of which were raised as areas of concern by FOGL members through discussion and our survey last September:
-
Opening day event which attracted press, local radio, and more importantly new visitors who discovered the Lido only through promotion of this event; the Mayor, councillors, decision makers as well as many Lido users and supporters
- A Charity swim organised on the opening day which has raised money for a local charity
- Later end of season closure which should allow enjoyment of the Indian summer we all hope for
- The introduction of new early morning sessions: 3 = Wednesday’s included in season ticket price, plus 2 optional extra days discounted for season ticket holders, allowing those who work to enjoy the Lido for the first time in some years
- Late evening sessions: 2 (included in season ticket price), plus 1 for season ticket holders only
- Blocks of sessions at a discounted price: for anytime and early morning sessions, perfect for those who discover the Lido later in the season
- Continuation of free swimming for over 60s
- Improved signage in the area promoting the Lido
- Gas pipe repaired, if this had not been done, the Lido may not have opened for this season
- Summer party planned, date to be confirmed
- Joint promoting of the Lido and FOGL in the press and media both through FOGL’s appointed, volunteer spokespeople and through a close working relationship with the PR people at Spectrum
- Full restoration and availability of the childrens’ pools
The one major issue that remains an ongoing concern for the FOGL committee on behalf of members is the continuation of pool halving this season. However, this is something we are continuing to seek solutions for and at least there is this season a firm public commitment to open the full pool when the conditions are favourable. If we have more news of finding a workable solution to this, we will post it here immediately and no-one will be more delighted to do so than the FOGL committee!
