Refurbished changing rooms unveiled at Hitchin Lido

The upgraded facilities were officially unveiled at the end of last month, during a special gathering attended by friends and fellow swimmers of Hazel Jacobs, who died in April 2024.

The refurbishment includes new cubicles, lockers, sinks, mirrors, and tiled flooring, significantly improving the experience for visitors.

Born on December 17, 1963, Hazel moved to Ickleford in 2016 and quickly became a familiar and cherished presence at the Lido.

Diane Jacobs was a beloved regular at the Lido. (Image: Everyone Active)

A food technology graduate, she built a successful career as a dairy buyer and supermarket strategy consultant.

Beyond her professional life, Hazel was known for her wide-ranging interests, including hiking, gardening, birdwatching, and amateur dramatics with the Settlement Players in Letchworth Garden City.

Friends remember Hazel as someone who brought “intelligence, energy and warmth” to everything she did.

Her approachable nature and sense of fun helped her form strong friendships at the Lido, where she was a regular swimmer.

A special plaque was unveiled in memory of Hazel and her generous legacy to the Lido. (Image: Everyone Active)

Members of her swimming group fondly recall how she embraced challenges, including the tradition of swimming a mile each summer.

Hazel’s love for outdoor swimming extended beyond Hitchin. She explored other lidos across southern England and even decorated her home with artwork celebrating swimming culture.

Brenda Santimano, a close friend who attended the unveiling, said the Lido had a “measurable positive effect” on Hazel’s life.

She added that the bequest reflected Hazel’s strong sense of community and her desire to give back to a place she loved.

The changing rooms have been full refurbished and are now in use by the public. (Image: Everyone Active)

Paul Francis, general manager at Hitchin Lido, expressed gratitude for the donation, describing it as a “wonderful gift” that has transformed the facilities.

He added that the refurbishment serves as a fitting and lasting tribute.

A dedication plaque installed outside the changing rooms honours Hazel’s memory, describing her as a cherished friend whose spirit will continue to inspire joy for visitors.

Another friend, Penny Nelson, said Hazel would have been “absolutely delighted” with the improvements, noting that her selfless gift was made with the understanding she would never personally benefit from it.

The Lido is considered a fantastic community facility. (Image: Everyone Active)

Cllr Amy Allen, executive member for leisure at North Herts Council, praised the generosity of Hazel’s contribution, highlighting the lasting impact it will have on future generations of swimmers.

She also thanked Hazel’s friends for helping ensure her wishes were fulfilled.

Hitchin Lido, which first opened in 1938, remains one of the town’s most treasured community facilities.

The Lido is considered a fantastic community facility. (Image: Everyone Active)

The changing rooms have been full refurbished and are now in use by the public. (Image: Everyone Active)

The newly refurbished changing rooms are now open to all visitors for the current season and beyond.