Big birthday milestones come around every ten  years so how to celebrate this one?! I wanted something the kids could come along to and something a bit different - so it became obvious that it was time to introduce friends to the joys of the lido and to chill in the cafe with some amazing post swim pizza.

A cloudy day gave way to sunshine and the water was a pretty warm 12.2 degrees for an intrepid group of about 10 who braved their first ever cold water dips - with varying degrees of success and joy. I'd say at least 50% truly enjoyed it and will be back - with faces brimming with endorphins and pure joy as they exited the pool.

What a place the lido is - in times of joy, sadness and everything in between it is there to welcome us in whatever the weather and to lift our souls and minds over one length, two lengths or ten lengths.

Roll on the next ten years - here's to many more swims and many more cold water dips.

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