A special event takes place at Ilkley Lido on Saturday to celebrate a record-breaking summer and give swimmers the last chance for a dip before it closes for the winter.

The dip and dunk event takes place between noon and 4pm and has been organised by The Friends of Ilkley Lido (Foil) with Bradford Council. Entry is just £1 and the friends will be giving away free hot drinks and cakes.

More than 49,000 visits were made to the lido this summer, with one week in July recording more than 10,800 users.

“We have had a great season this year, with record numbers of visitors to the lido and wanted to do something to celebrate this and to mark the end of the summer season,” said Louise Hale, chairman of Foil.

“This special opening of the lido is open to everyone and is a chance to have a last dip and enjoy this fabulous facility, plus of course some delicious home-made cake and a warming drink, before the start of our winter swimming activities and then closure of the pool until next season.”

“The weather this year has made a big difference to the number of people enjoying the lido. We are delighted with the number of visitors we have had,” added John Coulton, sports facilities manager at Bradford Council.

“Earlier this year we made some significant investments in the lido, including buying new water filters and sun loungers and fitting outdoor showers.

“We have also worked closely with Foil to promote the lido to attract visitors both from the local area and further afield and to run a range of successful events. This combination of good weather, improved facilities, increased marketing and events that have appealed to many different people, has delivered a great summer season... our best lido season for six years.”

The friends group will have an information stall at the event on Saturday and will be signing people up for the Winter Swimming Club that will run at the lido from September 28 to December 15.

“We have had a really good response to the Winter Swim and are looking forward to seeing lots of people in their wet suits enjoying the lido in winter for the first time,” added Louise.

Anyone interested in joining the Winter Swim club should pop along to the Dip and Dunk event on Saturday or ring Davy on 07862 721737.