Visions Leisure Centre in Cumnock has welcomed its newest team member thanks to a community funding boost.

The centre, which is owned by the Cumnock and District Leisure Group, received £10,000 from the 9CC group via Cumnock Community Council.

Made up of the community councils of Auchinleck, Cumnock, Netherthird, Cronberry - Logan & Lugar (CLL), New Cumnock, Dalmellington, Patna, Drongan - Rankinston & Stair (DRS) and Ochiltree & Skares, the 9CC group was set up to widen the possibility for community benefits in these areas.

Laurenne Baird was welcomed to the team by manager, Anne Hendry, as the charity's new funding officer.

The pool was opened back in 2004, with future renovations planned, thanks, in part, to dedicated support from East Ayrshire Council.

READ MORE: Cumnock leisure centre struggling with costs as council offers support

A Visions spokesperson said: "So many swimming pools nationwide have closed since the pandemic. 

"Costs have soared and it has been an extremely difficult time coming back from lockdown. External funding is, more than ever, key to keeping standards up and repairing and maintaining the centre.

"It is 20 years in October since Visions opened, following years of fundraising by the community group which formed the charity Cumnock & District Leisure Group.

"There is an extensive programme of essential repairs and upgrades to our 20-year-old boilers and ventilation systems planned, including a new pool liner.

READ MORE: Free summer holiday swimming sessions for children at Visions 

"We also plan to increase opening hours in the autumn after consultation with our members. We are currently recruiting new staff to accommodate longer opening hours over seven days per week.

"This is a major step forward to retaining community ownership and securing a bright future for Visions Leisure Centre.

"Laurenne will be reaching out to partners and funders over the coming months and we appreciate the investment from the 9 Community Councils group."