Two of the region's rising para-swimming stars will inspire the next generation as special guests at Letchworth Lido's 90th anniversary celebration next week.

Olivia Newman-Baronius and Harry Arnold-Pepper, both part of the Everyone Active Sporting Champions scheme, will join the family fun day on Saturday 26 July, supporting local children as they try new aquatic activities - and showcasing some of their own skills in the pool.

The event marks 90 years since Letchworth Lido first opened its doors on 31 July 1935, and forms part of a packed summer programme to celebrate the site's landmark anniversary season.

The Sporting Champions programme supports more than 1,000 athletes across the country with free access to Everyone Active facilities, as well as mentoring from elite-level Olympians and Paralympians. It plays a vital role in helping young sportspeople thrive in their careers, removing financial barriers to training and development.

Olivia, 18, from Leighton Buzzard, is a Paralympic gold and bronze medallist who made her Games debut at Paris 2024, capping off a spectacular season that also saw her equal a world record and win two European titles. She began swimming competitively at age six and joined the Swim England Talent Pathway by 12.

Harry, 16, from Royston, is one of the country's top young breaststroke swimmers and holds the East of England record in his class. He recently won silver at the English Schools Championships and has been selected for Swim England's National Youth Development Programme.

The pair will support a series of taster sessions between 11am and 1pm, before joining children for a friendly race and technique demonstrations. 

Activities on the day will also include a DJ, face painting and balloon modelling.

 Letchworth Lido is operated by Everyone Active, acting as an agent of North Herts Council, which owns the site.

Sarah Wright, General Manager at Letchworth Lido, said: "It's a huge privilege to welcome Olivia and Harry to this milestone event. Not only are they fantastic athletes, but they're also brilliant role models - and we know they'll help make the day unforgettable for our young swimmers and their families."

Cllr Amy Allen, Executive Member for Environment at North Herts Council, said: "We're so proud to be celebrating 90 years of Letchworth Lido – a much-loved part of our local heritage that continues to bring people together through sport and play. It's fantastic to see Olivia and Harry inspiring the next generation at this special event. Their stories show just how powerful community facilities can be in helping young talent grow."

 To find out more and keep up with the latest event information, visit: www.everyoneactive.com/news/celebrate-90-years-of-letchworth-lido/