Active Linda’s message of hope

11:11pm Monday 12th May 2008

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A blind woman who keeps fit with regular swims is the latest winner of a Bradford Council award to recognise those who encourage others to get active.

Linda Hanson picked up the b active award in recognition of her attitude and spirit towards exercise, despite losing her eyesight 12 years ago.

The 47-year-old regularly clocks up 60 widths during her sessions at Bowling Pool, which is the Council's main facility for people with disability and mobility difficulties.

In addition, she uses a treadmill at home and attends yoga and pilates classes.

Linda is also a member of the Alhambra Theatre's visually-impaired access group, which advises the staff on how to improve their services for visually impaired customers. She said: "I would urge everyone who has a disability to continue to be as active as possible and not to let it stop them from keeping fit, playing sports and enjoying life.

"I am a strong believer that physical activity has played a massive part in helping me get back on my feet and taking part in a wide-range of activities."

The Council's strategic director for culture, tourism and sport Jane Glaister said: "Linda has shown great determination to continue to lead an active life and is a great inspiration to everyone.

"Our facilities and staff across the district are working to accommodate people with disabilities and Linda is a great example of someone who has contributed by advising us on how to improve our services and is now getting the best out of the improvements we have made."

The mother-of-two from Low Moor recently took part in a Channel 4 documentary called Sight Seeing, in which she visited Italy to demonstrate the obstacles facing people with disabilities while travelling.

The b active awards are given out by the Council's leisure services to people in recognition of their achievements that have encouraged others to be more physically active. To nominate someone contact b active manager Andrew Burns on (01274) 431882.