A care home resident has taken a long-awaited dip at the local lido for the first time since experiencing a stroke.
Val Fletcher, from Penhurst Gardens Care Home, returned to the water at Chipping Norton Lido following a stroke that had kept her out of the water she used to visit.
She said: “It was magical, I could move in a way that I had not been able to do for 18 months.
“I felt completely safe and supported at every stage of the journey.
“The people were so friendly and encouraging to me and it was such a social experience as well.
“I am looking forward to my next visit in May.
“Such a wonderful and positive experience.”
The care home, part of Porthaven Care Homes, marked the visit by donating £1,000 to support the Lido’s refurbishment of its accessible changing facilities.
The Lido is introducing a modernised accessible changing room, complete with a dedicated shower and a disabled hoist, designed to help people with mobility needs enjoy the pool safely.
Liz Cooke, manager at Chipping Norton Lido, said: “We’re delighted to be able to offer a completely modernised accessible changing room this season, with its own shower.
“The Lido has been saving for this project for several years and is grateful for the donations of individuals and groups, including Penhurst Gardens, who have helped to make our dream a reality.
“Together with our disabled hoist, we’re confident that the new changing room will make outdoor swimming more accessible and enjoyable for customers this summer, and we’re looking forward to helping more people enjoy the water.”
Val was joined on the day by fellow resident Iris, home manager Lynne Elliott, and members of the Penhurst Gardens bus crew.
Ms Elliott said: “Chipping Norton Lido is such a valued part of the local community, so we are delighted to support the refurbishment of its accessible changing facilities through our sponsorship.
“Seeing Val return to the pool was incredibly special, and we are so pleased that our residents will be able to continue visiting the Lido regularly.”