The Lakeland Forum Leisure Centre, in Enniskillen has become the first leisure centre in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales to achieve the prestigious 'Inclusive Fitness Initiative' accreditation Mark ('IFI'), which recognises excellence in the provision of fitness facilities which are fully inclusive of people with disabilities.

Fermanagh District Council was presented with the prestigious 'IFI' award by former Paralympic athlete and current Chairperson of Disability Sports NI, Angela Hendra MBE, at Fermanagh's annual Sports Awards, held at the Killyhevlin Hotel in Enniskillen on Friday 7th March.

Speaking immediately after the awards ceremony Mrs Hendra said "I am delighted that the Lakeland Forum has become the first 'IFI' accredited site in Northern Ireland. The accreditation clearly demonstrates the council's commitment to ensuring that its sports and leisure facilities are truly inclusive of people with disabilities.

The many positive changes made at the Lakeland Forum will mean that many more local people with disabilities will have the opportunity to lead a fit and active lifestyle in the area".

Accepting the accreditation plaque on behalf of Fermanagh District Council, Councillor Alex Baird, Chairman of Fermanagh District Council said "I am delighted to accept this plaque on behalf of all the leisure services staff in Fermanagh who worked so hard to achieve 'IFI' accreditation, but more importantly I'm very proud that the Lakeland Forum is the first Leisure Centre in Ireland to receive the accreditation.

"I think the award underlines our ongoing commitment to including more local people with disabilities in our sports and leisure programmes."

The accolade marks the completion of a major series of work, largely funded by the Sport Northern Ireland Lottery Fund, which has included the complete refurbishment of the fitness suite, the purchase of new accessible fitness equipment and the training of leisure centre staff.