Managers at the Ferry Pool in North Oxford were determined to make it accessible to as many people as possible.

The poolside aid above was unveiled to help the disabled enjoy a dip in the water.

Swimmer Fran Stewart is seen hitching a ride on the new hoist which was installed at the pool in Marston Ferry Road in 1982.

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It was a gift from Eynsham-based firm F J Payne (Manufacturing), which specialised in making medical equipment.

The Lord Mayor, the Rev Tony Williamson, and John Payne, chairman of Payne’s, are seen watching the hoist’s baptism.

The company planned to put the hoist on the market later that year, at a likely cost of about £1,200. Ferry Leisure Centre is now run by Fusion Lifestyle.

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

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