Fundraisers a step closer to repair of pool for disabled users (From Swindon Advertiser)

Fundraisers a step closer to repair of pool for disabled users

1:00pm Saturday 3rd September 2011 in Local By Emma Dunn

URGENT repairs on the ventilation system of a pool for disabled people are a step closer thanks to generous donations from fundraisers, but the campaign still has a long way to go.

Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool, in Stratton, needs emergency work on its 30-year-old system to stop hot moist air causing further damage to the changing room ceilings, which could cost about £135,000.

At the moment the facility is staying open to its 29 youth and adult groups and thousands of hospital and family doctor referrals, by using a huge industrial fan and opening the doors – but they need the work to be carried out as soon as possible.

Yesterday, the campaign received a £5,000 donation from the Friends of the Hydrotherapy Pool and trustee Mike Baxter, said they were delighted.

“It is an excellent staff for us. We have already had one or two donations from other generous people as well,” he said.

“The campaign is really starting to move now.

“We are waiting to hear back from The Big Lottery Fund.”

Funds raised will help to replace the ventilation system in the pool area, fit new suspended ceilings in the changing rooms and upgrade the ventilation system in the pool area.

“Because the pool operates at 92-odd degrees and 80 per cent humidity, the old system was flooding through into the new building, which has got its own ventilation,” he said.

“When the condensation problem started about 18 months ago we got really worried. We did not know how bad it was until an electrician broke into the roof to find a cable and found water lying in the roof lining.”

A total of £553 has been raised by fundraisers, with event including a sale of jam and a fete stall.

Paul Charlwood, chairman of the Friends of the Hydrotherapy Pool, said: “This is our first contribution to the ventilation system. Hopefully we will be making another sizeable donation soon.

“We have got a few fundraisers in the pipeline.

“You have only got to stand here for 10 minutes and you realise how important this is as a facility because you can see the looks of pure delight on their faces. That makes you think ‘come on, roll up your sleeves let’s go for it’.

“It’s not only for people now but it is also for future generations.”

There will be a Christmas fete on October 29 from 10am until noon at St Barnabas Church, in Gorse Hill, to raise more funds.

Anyone who wants to donate to the Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool can contact them on 01793 496002 or email info@thamesdownhydrotherapypool.com.

Cheques should be made payable to Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool Association.