A NEW Poolpod has been installed at Musselburgh Sports Centre.

Enjoy Leisure, which operates sports centres in East Lothian, has introduced the Poolpod at the centre's swimming pool.

Since its installation at the end of August, it has been "transforming" the swimming experience for locals and visitors.

The Poolpod lift is available to all customers and members at Musselburgh Sports Centre, including wheelchair users and those who feel unsteady entering the pool.

It replaces the traditional pool hoist, allowing users to operate the controls via a wristband independently or with assistance from lifeguards.

The installation was made possible by an investment from Musselburgh Common Good Fund, which supports activities that benefit the Musselburgh and wider East Lothian community.

Bill Axon, chief executive of Enjoy Leisure, said: "We’re immensely grateful to the Musselburgh Common Good Fund for their generous funding.

"Since installing the Poolpod, feedback from visitors using the pool has been extremely positive.

"There’s a real buzz about the sports centre, and our customers and colleagues really love this new piece of kit."

He added: "We hope that the installation of our new pod will encourage many more people across the county to consider swimming.

"Users have the option of standing on the platform lift, or using the submersible wheelchair as it lowers them into the swimming pool."

Andrew Forrest, depute provost and trustee from Musselburgh Common Good Fund, said: "In supporting this application, we are ensuring that everyone who wants to use the swimming pool will be able to do so, with the freedom to enter and leave the pool as they wish.

"This also gives the community the opportunity to participate in classes, which will contribute to their fitness and wellbeing."

Anyone wishing to find out more can visit the centre to speak to a member of the team or call them on 0131 653 5208.