‘Shocking’ scenes as crowds flood to Ruislip Lido
IT looked like a normal summer afternoon at Ruislip Lido on Saturday afternoon.
Hundreds of people flocked to the artificial beach in Ruislip, with some apparently not adhering to the twometre distance guidelines.
Large groups gathered at the lido to soak up the west London sunshine and take a dip in the water.
Many people on social media have expressed their shock at how many people were allowed at the site and expressed outrage the lido has even been allowed to open, especially without the use of facilities including toilets.
The crowded scene comes a week after Hillingdon police warned large groups were visiting the lido and urged people to use their common sense after police were called.
People took to social media to express their concerns over the breaking of social distancing rules at Ruislip Lido and the closure of toilets – and even called for policing of the area.
On Twitter, one person who directed their statement at police said: “Please can you explain the situation with Ruislip Lido. Toilets closed but hundreds of people are there and are not social distancing and also going in the water.
“Surely you need to be policing this as it not fair for residents or the people who live near the lido.”
A second added: “Whose stupid idea was it to remove the fence that closed the beach/sand area at the Ruislip Lido?
“No toilets, staff or water safety in place. Absolutely shocking to allow this to happen considering the lockdown rules.”
A third stated: “This was Ruislip Lido today and it was as close as we dared go. Zero social distancing”, alongside a photo of the crowded lido taken from a distance.
On Facebook, one person suggested the lido be closed, saying: “Just shut it down, it’s not fit for purpose. No toilets or amenities.
“The people going there are not local and throw their rubbish everywhere, including used nappies. It’s sickening to see Ruislip Lido like that.”
A police statement posted online on Sunday May 24 said: “Please use common sense when it comes to social distancing. #Covid19UK.”