Disabled getting a sporting chance!

Nov 4 2008 by Andrew Hirst, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Disabled getting a sporting chance!

SPORTS facilities for disabled people in Huddersfield have been given the thumbs-up by users.

Wheelchair user Tim Owen visited the Stadium Health and Fitness centre at the Galpharm Stadium as part of a national campaign aimed at improving public access and services for disabled people.

Tim, 45, is one of several residents at Beechwood Cheshire Home in Bryan Road, Edgerton, who would like to get active but have struggled at sports centres.

But Tim, who has muscular dystrophy, praised the facilities at the stadium.

He said: “I was very impressed. They have hoists to get you in and out of the pool and they helped me use a machine that could strengthen my arms, which are very weak.

“I’d like to go every few weeks. It’s good for your health, but it’s a social thing as well.”

Ann-Marie Brook, volunteer co-ordinator for the Leonard Cheshire Disability organisation, which runs the campaign, echoed Tim’s comments.

But she added that other public places – such as shops and banks – could still make improvements.