Local Stories - The Lido - Jim Brown

How are you feeling today?

Under the circumstances, I am feeling pretty good!

What are you doing to stay positive in this current climate?

I’m trying to get a decent (well2!) walks in per day. One early in the morning and one in the evening. Also, due to working from home, I’m finding I’m able to spend a bit more time with my wife and son which I’m looking upon as a benefit. I’m also listening to podcasts and catching up on TV stuff on the planner that I’ve not got round to. Killing Eve - Oh my God!

How long have you been going to the Gourock Pool? 

I’ve been going to the pool for over 25 years.

Do you have any specific memories or stories about it?

Specific memories would be the initial ‘official’ midnight swims before they got too popular. It was great being in the pool as the sun was going down and music playing etc. I just love that feeling of anticipation when it’s almost time for it to re-open for the season. We’re so lucky to have it on our doorstep. The fact the BBC & STV news teams come down every year shows how much its novelty value reaches far and wide.

What makes the pool so special to you?

I love the fact we have an outdoor pool in our town, there are very few of them in Scotland. It makes it feel very special and adds a lot to the local community. The fact it’s been around for so long adds to the nostalgia around it.

What kind of swimmer are you?

Very much a social swimmer.

Have you ever been brave enough to jump from the top dale? 

NO!

Will you be sad to miss the Gourock Pool this season?

I’ll be absolutely gutted that it won’t be open this season. Summer officially starts in Gourock when it opens and that lovely feeling of being in the heated outdoor pool in rain or sunshine and walking home feeling vibrant and refreshed I will sorely miss.

We recently captured our SS20 campaign in Gourock, Inverkip & Largs – what do you find is so special about this part of the world?

I truly believe that we have some of the most wonderful scenery in Europe on the Firth of Clyde or the Clyde Riviera as I call it! Whenever people visit here they always comment on how beautiful it is and I never tire of looking at the views we have around us. We are truly blessed.

Jim Brown.

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