Wimbledon Distributes 500,000 Free Sunscreen Samples to Safeguard Spectators During Heatwave

Free Sun Cream Distribution at Wimbledon

As Wimbledon kicks off amidst a fresh heatwave, the tournament has begun distributing complimentary sun cream samples to protect the thousands of tennis enthusiasts enjoying the matches from the sun, particularly those seated courtside and on Henman Hill. This initiative is timely, coinciding with a yellow heat health alert issued for London by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), effective from noon today, Saturday, July 4, until 8pm next Saturday, July 11.

According to the Met Office, temperatures are expected to rise to 28°C today, climbing to 29°C on Sunday, with next week potentially seeing highs in the low 30s, culminating in a peak of 34°C by Thursday or Friday. In response to the soaring temperatures, stewards at Wimbledon are equipped with 500,000 samples of sun cream and ample water to distribute throughout the tournament, which runs until Sunday, July 12.

Partnership with La Roche-Posay

La Roche-Posay has been designated as the official suncare supplier for Wimbledon, providing sunscreen samples as part of the effort to ensure the safety and comfort of the expected half a million attendees over the fortnight. Additionally, there is an on-site pharmacy where sun cream, including a La Roche-Posay SPF 50 spray priced at £27.50, is available for purchase.

Military service stewards, Able Seaman Michelle Rowlands and Corporal Gillian Craig, have highlighted that sunstroke poses the greatest threat to spectators. They noted that every year, measures are implemented to help attendees manage the increasingly warm conditions. Ms Craig remarked that they are in a “good position” to monitor the crowds, stating, “We’ve got free sun cream out this year, along with extra water generously donated by Evian. These are just a few of the initiatives we’re learning to implement each year, and being on Centre Court allows us to be aware of the sun’s trajectory.” She emphasised the club’s commitment to improving spectator management in response to rising temperatures.

Expertise in Heat Management

Ms Rowlands elaborated on the training military personnel receive in heat protection and prevention, assuring that they are well-prepared to respond should anyone require assistance. She noted, “If someone goes down, we would know what to do.” While Ms Craig has yet to spring into action this year, she recalled that last year’s heat was particularly intense. She explained, “We’re constantly learning, and our day-to-day roles provide us with a solid foundation in first aid training. Our varied experiences globally allow us to contribute uniquely to the club, enhancing our ability to assist in these situations.”

Forecast for the Coming Week

Regarding the impending heatwave, Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell stated, “A heatwave is approaching parts of southern England and Wales, with current temperatures in the South East already relatively high. London could see 28°C today, while other areas may not reach such highs, remaining closer to average. However, temperatures are set to rise as we head into the coming week.”

She further noted, “Northern regions will experience cloudier conditions with occasional rain, creating a distinct north/south divide. Tomorrow, we anticipate highs of 29°C in the south, with the start of next week bringing temperatures close to the low 30s. The peak of the heat is likely to occur on Thursday or Friday, potentially reaching 34°C in the South East. In comparison to the heatwave experienced in June, this spell will not be as hot or humid, but it is expected to be a prolonged period of warm weather lasting around a week.”