GYM-GOERS in Bishops Castle are benefiting from state-of-the art equipment funded and installed by the charity operating the Shropshire Council arts and leisure centre.

The SpArC charity was set up in 2016 to run and manage the centre and now through dedicated fundraising and support from the local community it has raised £100,000 to fit out the health and fitness centre.

A complete gym refurbishment has been completed, with the latest Technogym equipment, making it what the operators describe as “one of the most sophisticated gyms in the county”.

“This a fantastic effort by SpARC and we are grateful for the community’s fundraising support to allow the fit out of the fitness suite,” said Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council Cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism.

“This is an excellent example of partnership working and it has allowed people in Bishops Castle access to the best quality equipment to manage their fitness and wellbeing.

To celebrate the installation of the new equipment a special membership offer is available.

Until August 18 new members looking to join the monthly Direct Debit scheme, including full, concessionary and joint memberships, should use the promo code “SPARCGYM to pay nothing until September 1

As well as the sports and fitness suite the centre boasts a swimming pool, artificial sports pitch as well as facilities for squash, badminton, martial arts and pickleball. Its classes – fitness Pilates, yoga, studio cycling, Swiss ball, aerobics and dedicated post-60 exercise classes, are hugely supported, as is the holiday offer for young children, including swimming lessons, fun splash and inflatables and children’s holiday activities.