A HIGH-TECH hydrotherapy pool has proved a real hit with disabled people who have given it a whirl in one north Durham town.

The spa pool - the only one of its kind in the North-East - is the latest addition to the facilities offered at the award-winning Stanley Day Centre for people with a physical disability or sensory impairment.

The £20,000 hydrotherapy pool is designed to accommodate up to six people. It has water jets that target key muscle groups, and provides a deep tissue massage to relieve muscle tension and reduce stress.

Anne Todd, an amputee on her left side, tried it out recently.

She said: "It's the first time I have ever been able to move my stump and I can't wait to try the pool again. I've been sleeping much better because of it."

Carers are also being invited to make use of the pool for relaxation purposes.

Contact the day centre for information