Copyright AGJ and Contributors 2004/08. Updated 30/3/2008
Bourneville Lido
Rowheath
Opened 1937
Birmingham
This Lido belonged to the Cadbury Brothers Ltd. and provided healthy exercising and sports events for their employees. “The lido” originated from 1896
It was set in leafy suburbia and was a wonderful lido to visit.
The lido was hired for many Galas, including
National and District Events, and Trials. The photograph was taken in July 1947 during Midland Trials, and a Water polo Match against the Olympic Team was a main feature.
It truly was a wonderful oasis and many employees must have enjoyed many family days splashing about in this pool.
Anyone belonging to an employee of Cadbury were able to get passes to use the facility.
Indoors - Opened 1905 - 87 Dressing Boxes in those days.
Messrs Cadbury provided this small indoor sports complex including a 25 yard swimming pool. The pool was originally the “Girls Bath.” The baths held 105,000 gallons and measured 80 ft by 60 ft. Again, many galas took place, including swimming and diving exhibitions.
The Lido, acclaimed to be one of the finest in the Midlands, and saw many famous swimmers and divers.
During June 1950 it played host to the Festival of Youth which focused on Industrial interest. There were 13 events with 75 girls and 100 youths entering the contests. Drawn from 50 firms from all over the British Isles other events included athletics, tennis, cricket, netball, basketball, rounders and archery.
Canoe exhibition by
Royston Reece
Diving exhibition
Good height achieved by Anne Stokes
from a half metre wooden springboard!
Water Polo exhibition
Willenhall v. Bourneville
Cadbury’s
Swimming Gala
June 1956
