No bank holiday opening for Lido

"Unforeseen problems" are blamed for the delay

Repair work to Cheltenham's Sandford Lido is taking longer to complete than originally expected.

It had been hoped the outdoor pool would re-open on Saturday in time for the bank holiday break after a £382,000 refurbishment project.

Lido manager Julie Sergent says it was not worth trying to rush the job.

"Although we are desperately sad we're not opening on this weekend we've got to make sure that it is right - and that's what we are doing," she said.

'Specialist advice sought'

"Unforeseen problems" are being blamed for the 5 May opening being postponed.

A statement on the Lido's website, said: "We are frustrated by the delay, but it remains our priority to ensure this refurbishment project is a success and we achieve our ambitions to restore, stabilise and protect the future of Sandford Park's Lido for many years to come.

"We are awaiting specialist advice, upon which a new timetable of works will be generated enabling us to announce our new opening date. We ask for your patience at what is a very difficult time for us," the statement read.

The Lido said it would make refunds for all tickets purchased for the original opening date.

A new opening date has yet to be confirmed.

Sandford Parks Lido, in Cheltenham, retains nearly all its original details and is one of the most complete examples of its kind in England.

The Heritage Lottery Fund grant will fund the complete revamp of the outdoor pool and provide a range of educational activities based around the lido.