A FRESH look has been given to a market town's swimming pool which has re-opened following a £2.3 million refurbishment.

After a year of work Ledbury Swimming Pool opened its doors earlier this month at the Lawnside Road complex.

The refurbishment centre now boasts a gym which is double the size of the previous facility fitted with new pieces of equipment.

There is also a new fitness studio for personal training and group classes.

The swimming pool has also been given a refurbished look including a new sauna, steam room and feature shower along with family friendly changing facilities.

Halo Centre Manager, Mark Johns said: "Our customers are telling us it was worth the wait and that they love the new centre.

"Everything Halo does is about getting more people, more active, more often so we are delighted to see old members returning and new members signing up for a swim in the pool, a workout in the gym, making new friends at a group exercise class or just winding down in the steam room or sauna.

"If you haven't seen the facilities for yourself, pop in and one of the team will be happy to show you round."

The full cost of the refurbishments has actually been £2.63m.

But the extra spending is down to a windfall from Sport England, to help modernise the changing rooms.

Councillor Harry Bramer, Cabinet member for Contracts and Assets added: “This is a stunning development of the leisure facilities in Ledbury. It's hard to believe it is the same place. It will be a big benefit for the health and wellbeing of the local residents and a great community hub where you will receive the warmest welcome and expert professional advice on all aspects of the centre's facilities."

For more information and timetables visit: www.haloleisure.org.uk.