100 walk to buy lift
Hoist would let disabled people use the pool
More than 100 people are expected to take part in a sponsored walk to raise funds for a new pool lift system at McLaren Leisure Centre.
Fundraisers have set themselves a target of £18,500 as they bid to install a new hoist at the swimming pool – allowing access to many who are currently unable to use it.
The hoist system will act to lower those with mobility issues, or with some disabilities, into the water. At present you need to be able to hold your own body weight to use the pool.
And fundraisers insist a new pool hoist would ensure people of all abilities are able to access the community resource.
As a result McLaren Leisure have joined with the Callander branch of the Royal British Legion to organise the Great Ben Ledi Sponsored Walk to raise as much cash as possible for the cause.
The walk will take place on March 25 with a quiz night taking place at Ben Ledi Lodge later that night.
Trossachs and Teith Councillor Martin Earl says the potential new installation would be a big benefit to the local community.
He said: “This is a wonderful idea. This hoist will provide access to the pool for a lot of people who cannot use it at present. It also reinforces the aspiration that Callander is a place where people of all abilities can visit and enjoy a wide range of activities.
“There is a very positive, determined group of people representing many local organisations coming together to make sure the money is raised and they deserve our support to ensure the target is reached as quickly as possible.
“I am delighted to confirm that Stirling Council has also agreed to support this project with a grant towards the cost of £3000. I raised the project with officers and they could see just how beneficial this hoist would be and were pleased to have the opportunity to support it.”
McLaren Leisure did, in the past, attempt to secure funding for the hoist through the Aviva Community Funds project and, despite huge support from the local community with the project receiving more than 6000 votes, they were ultimately unsuccessful.
However this has not dampened spirits and fundraisers have already contributed several thousand pound to a starter pot.
Sandy Campbell, Master of Lodge Ben Ledi, says the decision to get involved in the fundraising attempt was an easy one.
He said: “When we became aware of this project we were delighted to help. We are all coming together to raise the funds needed because this is such a good idea.”
Some of the cash raised will also go towards installing a potentially lifesaving defibrillator for the square on Callander Main Street.
Anyone interested in sponsoring the cause, or joining the walk, should contact David Gordon at davidg@mclarenleisure. co.uk.
Alternatively go to everyclick.com/ml to donate using Gift Aid.