Gym'll Fix It For You

Jim Flynn cuts the ribbon to officially declare the gym open

For the gym, based at the Netherton Activity Centre, plans to provide its facilities and expertise free to people who are prescribed an exercise programme as part of their treatment by their G.P.

Jim Flynn, who officially declared the facility open recently, explained: "The doctor will, in effect, write a prescription and send the individual down here to the experts who will then assess them, produce a programme for them and supervise them through that programme."

"Fitness Fanatics" was opened on February 12th by Mr Flynn, who is chair of the Netherton Partnership board and Cllr. Billy Burke. The new, floodlit all-weather pitch was also declared open by Cllr. Burke on the same day.

Pointing out that Liverpool footballer Jamie Carragher developed his skills at the NAC, Cllr. Burke said: "I hope the facility will encourage more youngsters on that road and even if they don’t achieve the same success, I hope they will enjoy what is here."

The newly-equipped gymnasium was made possible through a Netherton Partnership grant and developed in co-operation with Sefton Council’s Leisure Services Department and the Foundation for Sports and Arts. The new facility also provides a major boost for the NAC after the devastating arson attack last year.

Jeff Jones, manager of the centre, explains: "The fire was a terrible blow, but this new gym, complete with state-of-the-art equipment, will be a real bonus to our customers.

"I’m sure it will not be long before we see the results with healthier and fitter people in Netherton."

The NAC’s own management committee allocated £10,000 to the refurbishment of the gymnasium, a figure which was matched by the Foundation for Sports and Arts.

This money was added to the substantial grant of £40,000 from the Netherton Partnership, whose director Dave Brennan said: "We recognize that our commitment to the people of Netherton must include both their physical and mental well-being.

"By funding the complete refurbishment of the gymnasium we are hoping to go some way to fulfilling that commitment."

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