Despite the fact that the National Fitness Awards received more entrants this year than ever before, Two Riversmeet Leisure Complex in Christchurch has been shortlisted in the category of Local Authority Leisure Centre of the Year.

The centre was recognised earlier in 2021 by Prestige Awards, winning South West Leisure Centre of the Year.

Cllr Mohan Iyengar, portfolio holder for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, said: “Being shortlisted in a national award scheme is a superb achievement and a tribute to the professionalism and dedication of the team at Two Riversmeet.

“To help our communities to lead active, healthy and independent lives is one of our priorities. It is great to see that Two Riversmeet continues to champion the importance of health and wellbeing. Our leisure facilities play a vital role in encouraging people of all ages to get active and I think the team should be especially proud of their continued success in supporting our youngest residents to get active and stay active.”

During the pandemic, more than 800 online fitness classes were delivered by Two Riversmeet Leisure Complex, with over 150,000 views on YouTube. These classes were an invaluable support to keep local people physically and mentally active when gyms were closed.

The awards night is due to be held in Leicester on 26 November.