In an exclusive interview at Priory Hill and Nutts Farm Holiday Park, Danny Dyer revealed a bizarre and unexpected challenge in his latest venture: tracking down a 'serial pool pooper.' The Cockney actor, known for his roles in films and TV shows like Rivals, is teaming up with his daughter, Dani Dyer, to bring back the Great British holiday through a new Sky series. Their hands-on approach includes everything from mowing lawns to hosting events, but nothing prepared them for this peculiar incident.
A Surprising Discovery at the Holiday Park
Danny Dyer, with over 30 years in the entertainment industry, has faced many tough roles, but dealing with a mysterious individual repeatedly defecating in the swimming pool was a first. 'There was a serial... someone who liked to have a sh*t in the swimming pool,' he admitted, recounting how he had to politely request, 'If you can, please stop sh*tting in the swimming pool.' This humorous yet frustrating episode highlights the less glamorous side of running a caravan park, a far cry from the glitz of Hollywood.
Getting Their Hands Dirty for a Cause
Despite the oddities, the Dyers have fully embraced the hard work involved. During the visit, Danny was seen cleaning pool filters with his bare hands, while Dani took on caravan cleaning duties. 'I love organising things,' Dani laughed, describing tasks like stocking vending machines as therapeutic. Danny even donned a mascot costume as Bode Bear for a park opening, an experience he found claustrophobic but committed to for the children's sake. 'Once you're the bear, you're the bear,' he grumbled, showcasing their dedication to the project.
Reviving Community Spirit Through Caravanning
The Dyers' motivation stems from a deep-seated belief in the value of caravan holidays, particularly for working-class families. Danny reminisced about childhood trips to Canvey Island with his extended family, emphasizing how these experiences fostered a sense of community. 'It's a very working-class holiday,' he explained. 'We've lost that sense of community in today's divisive times. Kids playing outside, laughing on bikes—it's a beautiful thing to watch instead of having their brains zapped all day.'
Dani echoed this sentiment, recalling teenage summer breaks at caravan parks with friends. To modernize the park's appeal, she suggested adding glamping options, aiming to attract younger visitors. 'It's not a cool thing to do,' Danny acknowledged, noting that caravanning often faces a stigma, which is why Dani's fresh perspective is crucial.
Success Measured in Community Events
For the Dyers, success isn't just about profits; it's about bringing people together. They revived a traditional sports day at the park, pitting the Priory Hill and Nutts Farm sides against each other in a tug-of-war finale. 'It's about bringing everyone together as a community,' Danny said, proud of the event's excitement among kids and adults alike. This initiative reflects their goal to restore the communal spirit of the 'old days.'
Looking Ahead with Optimism
As The Dyers' Caravan Park launches on Sky and NOW on February 24, the father-daughter duo remains hopeful about reviving the Great British holiday. While the identity of the 'serial pooper' remains a mystery—Dani suspects it was kids—their focus is on fostering a welcoming environment. With their blend of hard work, nostalgia, and modern touches, they're off to a promising start in rekindling the magic of caravan getaways.