Lolling in the warm shallows, gazing up at the stars twinkling in the cloudless deep velvet night sky, the water illuminated by the bright light of a perfect full moon... where was I? Spain? Crete? The Caribbean? No – I was in Oxford’s own Hinksey Pool for its monthly summer Full Moon Swim.

Opening the pool extra-late once a month on the night of the full moon has proved a very popular initiative. The August opening was particularly well attended, as the conditions were absolutely perfect. With around 300 people booking in advance, and many more 'walk-ups' on the night, the pools were pretty full so it was more of a social experience than a sporting one (definitely not the night for length-swimming!).

The evening had a really nice vibe, with music playing at just the right volume to add uninvasively to the atmosphere, everyone in a good mood, and a wide cross-section of our local multicultural community, young and old, enjoying the experience together. It was the kind of occasion which makes you glad to live in Oxford.

Thanks to all the Hinksey lifeguards and pool attendants who worked so late to let it happen.