Will donation funds lido refurbishment

Swimmers have been able to enjoy newly refurbished facilities of an outdoor pool thanks to the generous gift of a much-loved member.

Hitchin lido in Hertfordshire underwent a series of refurbishments to its changing rooms, including new cubicles, lockers, sinks, tile flooring and mirrors.

It was made possible thanks to a bequest from Hazel Jacobs, who became a familiar face of the lido after moving to Ickleford in 2016. She died in 2024.

Paul Francis, general manager at Hitchin Lido, said: "It's a fitting and lasting tribute to someone who clearly loved it here so much, and we hope every swimmer who visits feels the benefit."

The 50m heated lido first opened in 1938 and was reopened for the summer season on 23 May.

Hazel, who died in April 2024 at the age of 60, was described as someone who brought "intelligence, energy and warmth" to everything she turned her hand to.

Members of her regular swimming group said Hazel and her lido friends would swim a mile at least once each summer to "prove that they could still complete this endeavour".

The facilities were unveiled at a special gathering attended by Jacobs friends and fellow swimmers on 30 May.

As part of this, a dedication plaque was installed outside the changing rooms.

A friend of Hazel, Brenda Santimano, said: "Hitchin Lido had a measurable positive effect on Hazel's life, and I am sure on the lives of many local residents who use this fantastic facility regularly each summer season.

"Hazel's bequest was made with precisely that community spirit in mind, intended for the benefit of everyone who enjoys this fantastic swimming facility and who value this special place as much as she did."

Amy Allen, Labour and Co-operative councillor, said: "It's wonderful to see these improvements completed and already being enjoyed by swimmers.

"[Hazel's] gift was incredibly generous and reflects the affection she had for this special place. By choosing to invest in its future, she's created a legacy that will be enjoyed by generations of swimmers."

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