A hydrotherapy pool at a Newton Aycliffe care centre is proving popular.

A survey at the Pioneering Care Centre found that 72 per cent felt that using it had improved their health.

More 70 per cent of people questioned also said that using the pool regularly improved their mental health, helping them to relax, make friends and stay pain-free.

A further 76 per cent of pool users considered themselves to have a long-term illness or condition, most commonly arthritis or back pain, and many said that using the pool had helped them to cope better with their pain.

The pool, which was unveiled last year by Sunderland footballer Niall Quinn, is open access, with no referral needed.

Women-only sessions, mixed, family and group sessions are available, as well as aquacise classes, offering gentle guided exercise.

Concessionary rates for anyone on benefits and pensioners are available, and where a carer is needed for assistance they can use the pool free of charge.

Anyone interested in using the hydrotherapy pool can ring the Pioneering Care Centre on (01325) 321234 or minicom (01325) 313133.