A teenage boy and a 25-year-old man have been arrested after a violent altercation forced Parliament Hill Lido to close early on bank holiday Monday, as temperatures soared to 33.5C. The popular outdoor swimming pool in Hampstead Heath was shut down shortly before 5pm yesterday, prompting staff to cancel evening sessions for dozens of families and sunseekers.
Incident Details
Police and paramedics responded to the scene at Parliament Hill Lido following reports of a fight. A 15-year-old boy and a man in his 40s were treated for minor injuries. According to a regular user of the nearby café, one person was allegedly struck over the head with a vodka bottle. The witness noted that the lido had experienced violence before the Covid-19 pandemic but has since improved its management. However, they expressed concerns that security measures were insufficient during the heatwave, stating that body searches were not conducted and security appeared too light.
Arrests and Aftermath
Two suspects, aged 17 and 25, were arrested on suspicion of affray in connection with the altercation. The lido remained closed throughout today as a safety precaution. The City of London Corporation, which manages Hampstead Heath, condemned the behavior as unacceptable. The charity expects to reopen the site tomorrow.
Background on the Lido
Parliament Hill Lido is one of the capital's most iconic swimming spots and has been a fixture in Camden for nearly 90 years. During yesterday's heatwave, large crowds gathered, with visitors reportedly queuing for up to an hour and 40 minutes to gain entry. This is not the first time violence has occurred at the lido; in 2018, a teenager was injured during a fight in the waiting area, and police were called the following year after minor scuffles broke out among those queuing.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference CAD5578/25MAY. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
