ACTIVE Northumberland has officially launched its new brand as it bids to become one of the leading leisure trusts in the country.

The charitable trust, which manages the county’s leisure services, set out an ambitious vision for the future at a launch event in Concordia Leisure Centre, in Cramlington.

Attendees heard stories from local people who have been supported by Active Northumberland through their personal health and fitness journeys, including Hexham swimmer David Cumberlidge.

David, who began swimming at Hexham, won a silver medal in the men’s 4x100m freestyle at the Commonwealth Games last year.

Meanwhile, ex-Olympic gymnast Craig Heap hosted the event.

Coun. Cath Homer, who represents Hexham East, discussed a £65m investment from Northumberland County Council.

Some of the grant will be used to build a new leisure centre in Ponteland and refurbish Hexham’s Wentworth Leisure Centre.

Coun. Homer said: “With the recent multi-million pound investment in sport and leisure in the county, it will soon have some of the best leisure facilities anywhere in the UK.

“Over the last year, Active Northumberland has been looking very closely at the way it delivers its services to ensure they are more inclusive, have a greater focus on health and wellbeing and encourage more people to participate in a healthy and active lifestyle.

“Our aim is to provide an efficient and highly effective service that delivers great experiences and great outcomes for our customers and communities.”