SWIMMING pool access for those who are disabled, less mobile or pregnant has been improved at two leisure centres in the district thanks to the installation of an Olympic style mechanism.

Both Braintree Swimming and Fitness Centre and Halstead Leisure Centre have recently had PoolPods installed, an innovative mobile lift mechanism that fits to the side of the swimming pools. The device helps individuals with reduced mobility in and out of the water with ease.

The pod has been installed at Witham Leisure Centre since July 2014 and has proved to be a big success - leading to increased swimming participation at the centre.

The Olympic Delivery Authority first introduced the PoolPod at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games with the aim of expanding participation in swimming to to more people around the country.

Jonathan Bash, general manager at Witham Leisure Centre, said: "The pool pod assists bathers to enter and exit the pool with dignity and securely.

"Swimmers can use the wheelchairs provided to access the pool seamlessly from the changing rooms rather than having to transfer to another hoist to gain access to the pool.

"The Pool Pod has boosted the participation of users with disabilities and has become a great feature at the centre.”

All three swimming pools in the district are run by charity Fusion Lifestyle, in conjunction with Braintree Council.

Peter Tattersley, Braintree Councillor responsible for health and communities, said: “Swimming is one of the best ways of keeping active and the Poolpod will help make our pools more accessible and ensure that every person with mobility issues has the same opportunity to access our sport and leisure facilities.”