'It's a wonderful privilege': swimmers return to Hampstead Heath ponds

Regulars appreciate the joys of swimming in famous London ponds post-lockdown

It was like trying to get tickets for Glastonbury!" said John Roberts, waving a paper ticket. It was his birthday and he and wife, Susanna, were palpably excited to be on their way for a swim in the mixed pond at Hampstead Heath for the first time in months.

Having spent lockdown working from their third-floor flat in Belsize Park without access to a garden, the couple, who are expecting their first baby, had been eagerly anticipating the government's announcement on Thursday that outdoor swimming facilities would be reopening.