A COMMUNITY leisure centre that was saved from closure 10 years ago is looking for more members so that it can continue to offer its range of services to local people.

Colburn Leisure Centre, in Richmondshire, opened in 2002 to provide the local community with a safe place for sport and recreation.

In 2011 it became part of Richmondshire Leisure Trust, a registered charity which provides leisure activities and community development services in the district.

The Northern Echo: Colburn Leisure Centre plays a pivotal role in providing activities and facilities for local people, enhancing their physical and emotional wellbeingColburn Leisure Centre plays a pivotal role in providing activities and facilities for local people, enhancing their physical and emotional wellbeing

As a charity any surplus income is directly reinvested back into the centre to improve the facilities.

The centre has had many successful funding applications in recent years, but also relies heavily on income from memberships and fees.

“We’re a small, friendly and inclusive centre with a fantastic range of activities for the local community,” says general manager, Austin Gordon.

“We offer affordable fitness. Membership is only £25 a month – which includes the use of Richmond swimming pool. That is cheaper than all other fitness centres in the area.

“We have a gym with three separate areas – a fully equipped functional training room, an airconditioned CV suite and a popular free weights section; a boxing room; a studio where we hold exercise classes, kids’ holiday activities and aerial yoga; a four-acre field for football; gymnastics and military sessions. We even have a barber on site.

“Unfortunately, we don’t receive any revenue support from the local council, and for the last few years have seen a decline in our membership due to Covid.

“Our customers understand the predicament we’re in, and it is only going to get harder. Just attracting 50 new members would make all the difference to what is a great community facility in Colburn and would help our sustainability.”

The Northern Echo: Colburn Leisure Centre plays a pivotal role in providing activities and facilities for local people, enhancing their physical and emotional wellbeingColburn Leisure Centre plays a pivotal role in providing activities and facilities for local people, enhancing their physical and emotional wellbeing

Over time the centre has become an essential part of the community, providing a wide range of facilities and sports clubs as well as playing field space.

It is also a community hub where a number of different groups – including the local multiple sclerosis group, military preparation college, Prince’s Trust and senior citizens’ mobility classes – meet regularly.

In recognition of the Fijian community in the area, an Open Day is being organised for October 1 to coincide with the start of Fiji Independence Month. The day is also a celebration of 20 years of the facility.

For more information visit colburn-leisure-centre.rltrust.org.uk or call 01748 835660.

Colburn Leisure Centre is situated at Catterick Rd, Catterick Garrison, DL9 4QH.