BOLTON'S gym and leisure centres are looking forward to welcoming people back as indoor facilities can now reopen.

Previously outdoor activities have been able to take place from March 29.

Individuals or household groups can now use facilities inside.

Mahendra Patel, partnership manager for Bolton Community Leisure Trust, which operates several sites across the borough, said:“We’re delighted to be reopening our gyms and pools across Bolton from April 12.

"The latest lockdown has been a difficult one for many, and I know how much our customers and employees have missed being at their centres.

“When we reopen, we’ll have the same social distancing and cleanliness measures in place, so customers and colleagues feel safe when they’re in our facilities.

“The past 12 months have highlighted to us all the importance of staying active for a healthy mind and body, and Bolton Community Leisure Trust’s friendly fitness teams are ready to assist people from every sector of the community as they resume or begin their journeys back to more active lifestyles.

“We’re running a number of enticing offers at the moment, so I’d recommend checking out our websites for great swim and gym deals."

Bolton Arena, home to several sports facilities, has seen a lot of enthusiasm from members about reopening.

John Ashley, head of communications at Bolton Arena said: "I think we feel the same as the rest of the community – we’re happy to return back to some form of normality.

“Obviously going to the gym is a big part of people’s lives and wellbeing. There’s a good feeling about it and people are excited to return.

“From March 29 we actually opened up on outside gym, which was partially covered with a marquee and complied with Covid guidelines.

“It was extremely popular and we had around 150 people attending each day. It helped to ease members back into the gym routine and increase their confidence.

“There is definitely the appetite for gyms to reopen fully."