A WOMAN who was recently awarded a British Empire Medal for her charity and volunteer work has praised a scheme for enabling her to maintain a healthy lifestyle and remain active.

Diana Hinns, 51, from Dipton, has become a regular at The Louisa Centre in Stanley after she got involved with the Leisureworks GP referral scheme.

She was referred by her doctor after seeking help to find ways to prevent joint pain and increase her overall stamina to ensure she could continue with her busy schedule.

Ms Hinns said: “I was looking at finding ways that I could move about more and keep active and since I walk with a stick and suffer from joint pain, it’s difficult to find something that would be suitable.

“When I was referred by the GP to the Louisa Centre I was particularly interested in the swimming sessions, and thought it would be great opportunity to get involved in some exercise.”

Swimming coaches at the pool have ensured Ms Hinns is able to access the pool safely and developed an individual programme of water-based exercises suitable for her disability.

She said: “The coaches were so helpful and they even get into the pool with you at the start and show you what to do and how to do it.

“It’s a very flexible pool and accommodates people who may need an extra helping hand very well.”