A VITAL service for disabled people has received boost in its attempts to raise funds to repair its ceiling.

The Tony Long Trust, which helps people with cerebral palsy and associated disabilities, has donated £2,000 to the Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool.

It has been made as part of the pool’s 500 Heroes campaign to raise £50,000 by the end of the year and will also go towards the annual running costs of the pool, which is about £35,000.

“We are always pleased to give to this wonderful facility,” said Tony Long, 85, chairman of the trust.

“It is a marvellous service that helps about 300 to 400 disabled people in Swindon, many of whom who use it weekly. The pool does great work and we were happy to give them the money.”

Tony has had a long association with the hydrotherapy pool. He helped to raise funds to build it and was then on the board of trustees for much of the 80s.

“It is well documented the benefits some of the people who use the pool get. Many people are referred there by doctors and even jockeys who are injured have used it.

“The warmth of the pool allows for extra mobility and many find it more buoyant.”

The money will be used to repair the ceiling in the changing room which has become damaged because of the hot air.

The 500 Heroes Camapign is targeting 500 people to raise £100 each.

Neil Montgomery, 42, the pool manager, said: “We’re really grateful to Tony and just want to say a huge thank you. Tony has done a lot for the pool over the years and he has come up trumps again.

“The money is a great lump sum and is a great start in raising money for the ceiling repairs.”

Despite the donation from the Tony Long Trust, the pool’s management are still appealing for help.

They have organised a swimathon on July 13, which will involve 20 minutes in the pool, swimming or walking, and gaining sponsorship from friends and family. There will also be charity stalls at the pool on the same day.

To find out more about the swimathon or to make a donation call Neil on 01793 496002.