LEISURE facilities across Redcar and Cleveland are to get a new lease of life after the company set up to run the services was awarded a new contract.

Tees Valley Leisure is celebrating an initial two-year deal with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council. It will herald an overhaul of existing services and the introduction of new ones, including free exercise classes for gym members and swimming lessons.

Other initiatives include the launch of swimming galas for people of all abilities.

One of the key aims is to provide an expanded range of activities for young people and families, as part of the drive to tackle obesity and encourage a healthy lifestyle.

Paddy Corcoran, managing director of Tees Valley Leisure, said: "While we are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this contract, it is the people living in Redcar and Cleveland that are the real winners.

"This announcement will bring a whole raft of improvements to leisure facilities across the borough, and we are excited about the opportunities we have to further help local residents get maximum benefit out the services on their doorsteps."

Improved facilities in the short-term will include re-decoration, vending services, new lockers and swimming pool inflatables.

Fresh options for members of Tees Valley Leisure's Energy Club will be launched, including free exercise classes for all membership categories.

The company's swimming lesson service will be relaunched with a sponsor, swimming kit manufacturer Aquasphere, which will see development galas for all standards of swimmers.

Tees Valley Leisure was established in 1999 as an Industrial Provident Society to manage the leisure facilities at Eston, Redcar, Saltburn, Guisborough and Loftus leisure centres on behalf of the council.

Councillor Sheelagh Clarke, deputy leader for the council, said: "We have awarded this contract to Tees Valley Leisure as it has an excellent track record and a great team of friendly and professional staff.

"It is so important for local people to have access to a wide range of sports and leisure facilities so they can stay fit and healthy."

For further information on the facilities visit www.teesvalley leisure.co.uk

Those who register at the site will receive more than £20-worth of complimentary visit vouchers.