Successful international swimmer Ali Phesse will be officially launching Helston Leisure Centre open day on Saturday, October 20.

The free all-day event showcases the result of a £450,000 refurbishment project that has just been completed.

The new facilities include a 42-station gym with high spec Technogym equipment and a state-of-the-art fitness studio.

Ali lives in Helston with her partner Rob and three daughters.

A senior national level swimmer from a young age, she originally retired from competition at 21 before returning age 43 and going on to win gold at the British Masters Championships.

In 2017, she won three medals in five events at the World Masters Championships in Budapest and, in the last two years, has managed to break two British Masters records.

In addition to her impressive competitive career, Ali runs her own fitness business and is a member of GLL’s Sports Foundation which supports talented athletes throughout the UK.

“It’s an absolute honour to be asked to cut the ribbon and officially open the new gym and studio,” said Ali. “I visit the centre regularly and know from personal experience what a difference these exciting improvements will make. It’s great news for the town and the local area.”

The official opening will take place at 10am and be followed with free gym taster and challenge sessions, free fitness classes and £2 swims for all the family.

Leisure social enterprise provider GLL runs all Cornwall’s leisure centres on behalf of the council.

“GLL has made a significant investment in Helston and we’re delighted that Ali has agreed to be our guest of honour,” said Helston’s general manager Matthew May.

He added: “The open day is our opportunity to show people what we’ve done in the centre and encourage new members. As we all know, an active lifestyle really is good for your health.”

For more information, visit https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/cornwall/helston-sports-centre/news/you-re-invited-to-our-open-day-2018-10-05-14-02-00-0100