A college fitness tutor has been named female personal trainer of the year 2021 at a national awards ceremony.

Holly Lynch, who teaches Lancashire Adult Learning Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer programmes, Nelson and Colne College’s 16-19 sports programmes and owns the new Empower HQ Training in Barrowford, scooped the title at the Fitness Professional Awards, held at Liverpool's Hilton hotel on Saturday November 6.

The award relates to Ms Lynch's personal training work outside of her college employment, which she has done for 10 years and recently led to the opening of her own studio and gym, Empower HQ Training.

Ms Lynch said: “I’m still stunned that it was my name called out on the night.

"You really don’t know what they’re looking for, so I had a no idea that I would win.

"I have a true passion for health and fitness and love working with people, so to get this award is amazing.

“A lot of work has gone the creation of Empower HQ over the past year and to know that the public have nominated me for the award is incredible and I cannot thank them enough.

“Empower HQ opened in October and I really see it as a community hub of activity.

"But I have not done it alone, so this award is for everyone involved my journey so far – and there’s more to come."

Empower HQ is based in Lower Clough Mill, Barrowford and boasts studio and gym where a number of classes are held every day, from HIIT workouts to pilates.

Ms Lynch added: “We really wanted to be able to offer something for everyone, whether looking for strength-focused workouts, cardio burns or recovery conditioning sessions and it really has seemed to hit the mark with clients of all ages and ability.

“Having the studio and gym also enables me to provide real life settings for my students at college and I love being able to teach others the joy of being a fitness professional.”

Holly works 12 hours a week between Nelson and Colne College and Accrington and Rossendale College and was nominated for the awards making it through to a longlist and then a shortlist based on votes.