A FITNESS firm run by two Rossendale brothers is set to open a permanent gym in the Valley following the success of its Manchester studios.

Lean Fitness, the brainchild of Waterfoot pair Jonny and Paul Stannard, has applied to convert part of an MOT centre at The Corn Exchange business park in Rawtenstall into its head office.

The duo started their fitness camps in a Watefoot field three years ago and have gone on to work with Rossendale Harriers, a host of semi-professional football teams and fronted a healthy eating campaign which was organised by TV chef Jamie Oliver.

The Stannard brothers previously held workouts at Rakefoot Methodist Church, in Crawshawbooth, the Top Club in Loveclough, and their old school, Fearns Community Sports College in Stacksteads.

The firm’s six full-time trainers specialise in one-to-one fitness workouts, group sessions and yoga courses, along with giving advice on diet and nutrition.

Paul, who now lives in Loveclough, said that the new gym and offices would create two more jobs.

He said: “The business needs a head office and bespoke gym to provide these services, offer seminars and promote well-being within Rossendale.

“The promotion of local businesses should be welcomed, as it not only promotes growth within Rawtenstall and wider Rossendale, but will bring people into the town centre, thus providing an increase in footfall to the local shops and businesses.

“This type of business should be welcomed within Rossendale as it will promote Rossendale as being a place where residents’ health and wellbeing is a key focus.”

The unit is currently home to Holmefield Garage.

It has agreed to sub-let an unused part of the building to Lean Fitness if the change of use proposals are given the go-ahead. The brothers were brought up in the Royal Oak Hotel in Waterfoot, where their parents were landlords.