Leisure trust Active Nation has acquired the former Fit4Less gym in Preston, Lancashire, bringing the number of budget clubs in its portfolio to three.

Located at the city's Capitol Centre, the 9,964sq ft site houses 80-station gym floor and a 12-station functional training rig.

A cycling studio has been kitted out with Keiser M3 bikes and there is also a virtual class offering provided by Fitness on Demand.

According to Mark Learnihan, Active Nation's business development director, the acquisition of the Preston site is part of plans to increase the number of clubs operated by the charity to 30 by April 2020. The Preston site takes the number of sites in its portfolio to 21.

“We are continuing our growth as part of a larger charity strategy and this addition sees the diversification of our business model grow," Learnihan said.

“Our goal is to secure further opportunities that enable us to build and strengthen our brand and continue our mission to persuade the nation to be active.

"A growing portfolio enables us to reach more of the population and embed our other brands locally. Active Communities, for example, allows us to engage with local health providers, GP surgeries and the NHS. Our Active Warrior obstacle course races allow us to engage with more families and encourage all ages to lace up, step outdoors and enjoy physical activity.”