Fans in Wimbledon sell out as spectators melt under 30C+ heatwave | UK | News
As England experiences its third heatwave in as many months, tickets have been sold out for fans looking to cool off sweltering Wimbledon crowds. Electric and conventional hand fans are no longer in stock at the All England Club’s four stores.
Wimbledon branded fans were greatly appreciated by tennis fans who attended the championships; Many in the crowd were seen using these products to cool off while watching the action. It appears that hand fans sold for £16 on Sunday and electric fans sold for £20 on Monday were sold out. Both are listed as out of stock online. This coincides with temperatures rising in SW19, with the mercury expected to potentially reach 34C on Thursday.
Many could be seen taking shelter from the 32-degree heat in shaded areas and under umbrellas on Wednesday, with the All England Club encouraging guests to stay hydrated and stay safe in the sun.
The highest temperature at Wimbledon during the championships was 35.7 degrees, recorded in July 2015.
Wimbledon has made a number of changes to help spectators cope with rising summer temperatures.
Thousands of people in the famous queue are being given free sunscreen as organizers create more shaded areas ahead of the start of the tournament. Suncream is flying off the shelves at the Wimbledon pharmacy as spectators try to protect themselves from the scorching heat.
The available stock was supposed to last until the end of Sunday’s championship, but due to increased demand more could now be delivered.
Wimbledon sources insist there is ample supply and a spokesman for La Roche-Posay, sunscreen supplier to the championships, said: “Our products have proven extremely popular in the high temperatures and have shown that spectators take sun safety seriously.
“As part of our partnership with Wimbledon, we have worked to increase volumes through the on-site pharmacy to reflect high demand.”
Band-aids for blisters, antihistamines, pain relievers, and electrolytes to help with hydration are also popular purchases.
A yellow heat health warning from the UK Health Safety Agency will be in force for London and other areas until 9pm on Sunday.
Wimbledon’s iconic military officers are also handing out free sunscreen and extra water to attendees.
Staff had previously warned that heatstroke was the biggest risk for spectators.
Heat-related illnesses appear to be below levels seen last year.
The All England Club has been approached for comment.
