The work on a specialised swimming pool for the disabled is expected to get underway at the Bahrain Mobility International (BMI), Isa Town, next month.

The pool is being built thanks to money raised at the Riffa Views Shaikh Faisal bin Hamad Al Khalifa Memorial Trophy in February.

A total of BD50,000 ($132,661) was raised at the tournament, which was held at His Majesty King Hamad's private golf course in Safriya.

It was held in memory of the King's son, Shaikh Faisal, who died in a car accident in January 2006.

BMI vice-president Adel Sultan said BMI was very pleased to receive a letter from His Majesty thanking the centre and sponsors for making the dreams of the disabled come true.

He said construction on the pool was expected to start next month and would be completed within six months.

'We will also buy wheelchairs and specialised equipment,' he said. 'We will build ramps for people who need them at their houses and downstairs toilets inside their homes.'

BMI president Muneera bin Hindi said the fundraiser was vital to the centre not only because it raised money but because it created awareness about the disabled.

'Inclusion is more important than money, you need people to speak to you and say 'how are you?' she said.

'When you give me money with a sad face I will say I don't want your money. Ten years ago it was different but now people look at them in a good way and give them a chance.'

BMI liaison officer and fundraiser Dreena Rogers said the money raised at the annual tournament had helped to transform the lives of the disabled.

With the money raised last year BMI has been able to buy specialised buses, renovate the centre's building and buy new furniture and equipment.

'The members love coming here at any time,' said Rogers. 'Before they didn't like to come because there was nothing to do, but now we have crafts, a printing room and a place to gather and talk.'

'There is a basketball area and a play area for children and now we will have a specialised swimming pool for the disabled and aqua-therapy is the best form of exercise for the disabled,' she added.-TradeArabia News Service