PRAISE has been offered up to Barrow Leisure Centre after a family with an autistic son commended their ‘amazing’ facility.

Maggs Hay visited the centre with her eight-year-old son Rhys, who has autism, during a family holiday to Cumbria.

The family, who live in Cardiff, decided to enjoy some time in Barrow.

“When we go on trips, we can’t just go to your standard places. It’s very complex trying to work where would be best for Rhys,” said Maggs, who works as an IT manager.

“We’ve been told about all the amazing things to do in the Lakes but for us that can be very difficult. Rhys loves swimming so we wanted to find a pool around this area.”

And Barrow Leisure Centre provided everything the family needed and more, said Maggs.

Rhys, who also has ADHD and sensory processing disorder, visited the facility three times during their week trip up north.

“Barrow ticked all the boxes for us,” said mum-of-three Maggs.

“They have family changing rooms which was fantastic for us and the staff were all so friendly. Rhys loves slides and at the top of the slide he was a bit scared. Even though there were ten people behind us, the staff and people were so patient and welcoming.

“We offered to let them go in front but they told us to take our time. And we were able to go down the slide together as well.

“The parking was great there too – free and right outside. All these little things make such a difference. We ended up going three times in one week.

“Not once did I mention my son was autistic, they were so attentive and welcoming regardless.”

Maggs praised her visit to the leisure centre on her Facebook page, A & Me.

The page, which has more than 20,000 followers, aims to share the family’s experiences with autism.

The post commending the staff and facilities at Barrow Leisure Centre received more than 1,000 likes.

“I hope by sharing our positive experience there, other people with feel more confident to go there,” said Maggs.

“People find it really helpful.”

And staff at Barrow Park Leisure Centre responded to the outpouring of praise.

A spokesman said: “All the staff here at Barrow Leisure Centre are really pleased to hear that you and your son had a great experience at our centre on your visit to the Lake District. Thank you for choosing our centre for your swim. We do hope you enjoy the rest of your trip and we look forward to seeing you again.”