DARWEN Leisure Centre will splash out more than £220,000 on a major facelift thanks to a lottery win and council grant.

Plans are well under way to transform the town centre facility with special emphasis on making it more user-friendly for the whole community.

Area recreation manager Anne MacSmith is excited about the work which is due to start in September.

"The refurbishment will make the centre more accessible for all. More people will be able to make use of the facilities and we will be able to offer a better quality service," she explained.

A ramp for disabled people, mothers with prams and infirm folk will be installed along with a lift in the reception area.

The changing rooms are to be given a new lease of life with new tiles and extra facilities for parents, the disabled and community groups.

The popular gym facilities are to be doubled in size and moved to overlook the swimming pool, and the cafe will be located in the more convenient foyer area.

A free taster day is to take place at the centre this Sunday to remind townsfolk the pool is just one of the many attractions on offer.

The activities include a full range of fitness classes, martial arts sessions, swimming and mixed sauna, a bouncy castle, disco roadshow and creche.

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