ONE of Northumberland’s biggest leisure centre’s has reopened after a £698,000 refurbishment.

The Wentworth Leisure Centre, in Hexham, reopened on Monday after months of renovation work.

The funding was financed by Northumberland County Council as part of an ambitious £65m county-wide investment programme to upgrade and transform sport and leisure facilities, and enhance customer experiences.

The improvements at the facilities, run by the council’s leisure arm, Active Northumberland, mean the centre now boasts one of the best gyms in the North-East, upgraded changing areas and a newly-designed modern reception and cafe.

The new state-of-the-art gym has been designed to be used by all members of the community.

The reception area has been re-designed to be more interactive and welcoming with the introduction of self service pods.

The new-look Hive Cafe has new furniture and a brand new layout.

Hexham east councillor and cabinet member for tourism and leisure, Coun. Cath Homer, said: “Both the new gym and the cafe have been really well received and have created a ‘wow’ factor within the local community.

“There has been a real buzz about the place and what has been particularly pleasing is that we’ve seen an influx of younger people.

“This investment by the county council is a fantastic boost for Hexham and the surrounding community. ”

Wentworth Leisure Centre manager, Richard Anderson, said: “We’ve got some fabulous equipment and easy-to-use technology to help people on their health and fitness journey.

“And it’s been brilliant to see people of all ages coming in to use the new facilities.”