Saltdean Lido: ‘Mayhem’ as 150 dogs take over Brighton web site

More than 100 golden retrievers introduced “complete doggy mayhem” to a Sussex lido in what’s considered the most important canine swim occasion within the UK.

On Saturday, “Dogtember” started at Saltdean Lido in Brighton – a collection of swim periods for each dogs and other people over 4 weekends.

One organiser stated about 8,000 dogs and other people would participate within the 40 periods.

The occasion helps fundraise for the Thirties Art Deco venue, which reopened to the general public in June.

The “Gold Rush” session on Saturday morning noticed 150 golden retrievers and their homeowners cool off from sizzling climate on the lido.

Deryck Chester, one of many administrators of Saltdean Lido Community Interest Company (CIC), stated the occasion attracted dogs and homeowners from all around the UK.

“It’s utterly bonkers however we now have most likely about 8,000 dogs and people coming for these 4 weekends of the Dogtember occasion.

“It’s full doggy mayhem. The wonderful thing about this occasion is everybody’s smiling.

“You do get a bit moist however it’s only a little bit of enjoyable,” he added.

Mr Chester stated the dog-swimming occasions had been fundraisers that contribute to the restoration and sustainability of the lido and subsidise swims for people all through the season.

It is assumed this yr will generate about £60,000, and it’s estimated some £250,000 has been raised because the occasions started in 2017.

Dogtember will proceed till 1 October.

Saltdean Lido was constructed between 1937 and 1938, however the Art Deco construction turned derelict after getting used as a water tank by the National Fire Service throughout World War Two.

Restored by Brighton Council and reopened in 1964, its survival was threatened once more in 2010, when the then-leaseholder wished to redevelop the positioning.

It was saved by a neighborhood marketing campaign, resulting in the founding of the Saltdean Lido CIC.