North Country Leisure (NCL) Alnwick has officially unveiled new facilities at two of its leisure centres; a new studio at Willowburn Sports and Leisure Centre and a new fitness suite at Coquetdale Swimming and Fitness Centre in Rothbury.

The studio at Willowburn Sports and Leisure Centre was added thanks to £510,000 in funding from Alnwick District Council. Completed in September, the centre can now offer classes and activities including dance, aerobics and martial arts. The room is also available for hire by local organisations.

The £255,000 development at Coquetdale Swimming and Fitness Centre, also funded by Alnwick District Council, has seen the introduction of more than 20 new pieces of cv and resistance equipment. More than 100 new members were signed up in the first two weeks of opening.

NCL Alnwick managed the development project in partnership with the Dr Thomlinson Trust, Alnwick District Council and Northumberland County Council.

"Alnwick District Council has had a long term commitment to improve sport and leisure opportunities in the district and the big financial contribution we have made to these projects is testament to this commitment," said the Council's Vice Chairman, Councillor Audrey Jones.

"Over recent years, thanks to a great partnership effort, the district facilities have gone from strength to strength and the latest additions in Alnwick and Rothbury will, I am sure, also prove to be extremely popular and well used."

Chris Horner, Chairman of NCL Alnwick added: "The new facilities at Willowburn Sports and Leisure Centre and Coquetdale Swimming and Fitness Centre are a fantastic addition to NCL Alnwick's sport and leisure provision for the community. Both Centres will offer our customers of all ages an opportunity to benefit from the considerable investment for many years to come."