FUNDRAISERS are celebrating after reaching their £2.8m target to build a new hydrotherapy pool at Victoria Education Centre.

It’s taken two and a half years to raise funds for the much-needed new state-of-the-art facility which will provide pain relief and a sense of wellbeing for disabled pupils at the Branksome centre.

The Lindsay Road centre provides education, care and therapy for 100 children with complex physical and neurological difficulties.

Hydrotherapy plays a vital part in their development.

The new pool, which will replace an outdated 30-year-old one, will incorporate sensory swimming, use the latest UV lighting technology to filter the water and a new hoist system to move students from changing rooms to the pool.

Appeal manager Diana Newbury said: “The people of Dorset have given tremendous support to this wonderful project. Seeing the pleasure the children get from being in the pool is priceless; we cannot thank our supporters enough.

“Hydrotherapy provides an essential part of our pupils’ wellbeing and pain relief, helping to strengthen muscles and reduce muscle spasms.”

Many children have learned to swim at the centre and the new facilities will also be available to the local community.

The contract to build the much-needed new pool has been awarded to Morgan Sindall with building work due to start in July.

Area director Paul Gale said: “The benefits of hydrotherapy are enormous and providing the pool and therapy service in one building will ensure all the needs of the pupils are met.”

The Daily Echo-backed Sparkle appeal will continue to raise £1.2m for a new therapy centre at the education centre.