A £3m expansion and refurbishment of Kingswood Leisure Centre in Gloucestershire has resulted in a 150 per cent increase in the number of visitors since it opened in May.

The revamp, funded jointly by South Gloucestershire Council and Circadian Trust, included a new, fully equipped gym and 20 new spin bikes and led to an 80 per cent increase in membership over the past year.

Swimming has also seen a dramatic increase with more than 26,000 people using the new 25m pool throughout July and August, almost 50 per cent more than the previous year.

Mark Crutchley, Chief Executive at Circadian Trust, said: "Our customers have responded positively to the refurbishment, which has really transformed both the facility and the way people use it.

"The feedback is that people are delighted to see this level of care and quality in their local leisure facilities as they play such an important part in the community."