SIR: We have had the opportunity to enjoy the lidos in two communities, Clifton in Bristol and Brockwell Park, South London. Both sites were in recent years earmarked to be closed down to make way for building development and in both cases there was opposition which resulted in the pools and poolside cafes being kept open to the huge benefit of swimmers young and old.

Apart from the recognition that open water swimming has health benefits, the story of the successful struggle to reopen Brockwell Lido, The Lido by Libby Page, is on an NHS list of books recommended to lift the spirits.

Go for it Winchester!

Romy Halliwell,

Flexford Road,

North Baddesley