HUNDREDS of people gathered at the site of the former Knap Lido, in Barry – braving the elements to support the rebuild campaign.

Campaigners gathered on Sunday, August 10, at the now-disused site to register their feelings and share memories of the iconic open-air facility which closed to the public in 1996 – 70 years after it first opened its doors.

The Rebuild The Knap Lido Facebook campaign has so far attracted interest from more than 7,850 people and campaign founder and leader, Barrie Evans, coordinator Dean Snooks and the team are urging people to sign the petition of support as they aim to progress the idea further.

Barrie said: “The success of the event during a somewhat windy and chilly day showed how much emotion that is present in the hearts and minds of all those in attendance at the event designed to highlight the peoples wishes to see our former jewel in the crown at The Knap restored to its former glory or at the very least replaced with a modern all weather facility with retractable roof and also the provision of a splash type pool for the younger members of our community.

“People travelled from Bridgend and Cardiff which is testament to the grief felt by everyone over the years since the much loved facility was removed from the landscape. We will continue to fight for this facility to return to The Knap and our supporter numbers are growing quite rapidly.”

Coordinator, Dean Snooks, added: “It’s time for the Vale to listen to what Barrians want for a change. We want our Lido back - somewhere safe for our kids.

“An excellent turn out in not great weather conditions. Over 400 people turned up and parking absolutely no issue.”

Meanwhile, Vale MP Alun Cairns met with group members last week to discuss possible ways forward.

He said: "Barrie Evans and the group of supporters have done a fantastic job in generating enthusiasm throughout Barry in support of the Knap Lido.

He said: “Although I can remember as a young boy visiting the Lido, there are many aspects to it which I had forgotten. Speaking to Barrie and the team brought back some great memories of my time spent there and this is something which I hope could be shared across Barry.

“There have also been many success stories of other Lidos being regenerated across the UK. Some may remember Penny Mordaunt MP who took part in the television show Splash to raise funds for the regeneration of Portsmouth Lido - not that I plan to raise money in the same way. But as a committed supporter, I want to ensure that the group can successfully restore the Knap Lido to its former glory. This will be a great asset to Barry.”

The group plans to march from the former lido, at 4.45pm, to the Civic offices, on Holton Road, on September 24 to reach the council offices by 6pm when full council is scheduled to meet.

Supporters are welcome to join, with inflatables, at any point on the route.

To sign the petition: http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/the-vale-of-glamorgan-council-we-are-the-rebuild-the-knap-lido-group-and-we-want-you-at-the-vale-council-to-rebuild-the-knap-lido-fortwith

Like the Facebook Rebuild The Knap Lido or follow on Twitter @SaveKnapLido