The first leisure centre in Europe for disabled and non-disabled people has opened in Stanmore. 

The team at Aspire Leisure Centre in Wood Lane, Stanmore, were thrilled to officially re-open the swimming pool on January 3, since its closure in November.

One donor, Mary Tye, took part in the re-opening and cut the ceremonial ribbon.

The refurbishments have been made possible thanks to donations from local people including Miss Sobti, Sue Smales and Mary Tye, as well as companies including Dyson, Vitra, Calabash, Interfix, Wealdon Rehab and Walters.

They include new accessible toilets, showers, under water hand rail to assist with rehabilitation and LED lights.

Brian Carlin, Aspire CEO, said: “We are extremely grateful to everyone who has made a donation to the refurbishment of the swimming pool changing facilities.  Due to general wear and tear from regular use, this was a long overdue task that will have a big impact on our customers.”

The Aspire Leisure Centre provides swimming lessons, including one-to-one lessons for anyone with a disability and will continue to support the work of the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital.