An Oxford leisure centre has welcomed a new member of staff with a unique connection to the facility.

Lincoln Madden, a newly qualified lifeguard, was the first customer of Leys Pools and Leisure Centre when it opened in January 2015.

The then six-year-old and his brother, Nelson, had been taken to the pool by their dad.

Lincoln Madden with his brother, Nelson, at the pool in 2015Lincoln Madden with his brother, Nelson, at the pool in 2015 (Image: MLCT)

He is currently studying business and sport at Greyfriars School Sixth Form in Oxford and is set to combine school work with lifeguard duties at Leys.

He said: "I can’t wait to do my first shift. I really enjoyed the training and I’m looking forward to the responsibility of keeping people safe when they’re at the pool."

His dad, Chris Madden, said: "Me and his mum, Chrissy, are so proud of Lincoln.

Lincoln Madden with his parentsLincoln Madden with his parents (Image: MLCT)

"He was one of the first to ever use the pool, he learnt to swim here, and now he’s a lifeguard, fulfilling an ambition I had for him as a kid."

Richard Monger, general manager at Leys, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Lincoln to the centre, now as a member of staff.

Lincoln Madden holding his lifeguard certificateLincoln Madden holding his lifeguard certificate (Image: MLCT)

"He’s got the right attitude and joins our excellent lifeguard team, a group of people who take great pride in their commitment to customer safety."

Leys Pools and Leisure Centre is operated by More Leisure Community Trust in partnership with Serco Leisure.