Ipswich: Park’s pool is still open – in October!

A holiday park owner has toasted the “incredible” Indian summer that has led to a huge increase in the number of bookings he has received.

The region has been basking in balmy summer temperatures over the past week, experiencing the hottest end to a September since 1895.

And as October starts today, for the first time in 20 years at this time of year, the outdoor pool at the Orwell Meadow Leisure Park will be open to holidaymakers.

The park normally has only two or three guests on site at this time of year.

However, it has more than a dozen bookings this weekend as people look to make the most of the weather conditions.

Owner Dave Miles said: “There has been a real resurgence in people ringing us up.

“We normally shut the pool at the beginning of September – it’s incredible. I have never known an Indian summer like this before.”

Meanwhile, with the unusual warm weather set to continue into early next week the RSCA has reminded dog owners not to leave their pets in cars, conservatories or caravans while they enjoy the sunshine.

A spokesman said: “All too often, owners make the mistake of thinking that it is sufficient to leave a bowl of water or a window open for their pet but this is not enough to protect your pet from heatstroke, which can have fatal consequences.

“The RSPCA’s message is ‘dogs die in hot cars - don’t leave your dog alone in a car’.”